Africa poised to lead global energy access by 2030, says Rockefeller Foundation President

Dar es Salaam. The President of the Rockefeller Foundation, Dr Rajiv Shah, has expressed optimism that Africa will be at the forefront of achieving universal energy access by 2030, following the ongoing Africa Energy Summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Speaking at the summit on Monday, January 27, 2025, Dr Shah praised the collective efforts of African leaders, investors and stakeholders, describing the event as a pivotal moment in the continent’s energy transformation.

He stressed the importance of collaboration and innovation in unlocking Africa’s immense potential.

“This summit is a pivotal moment for Africa’s future,” Dr Shah said. “It brings together leadership, investment, and innovation to unlock the immense potential of this continent.”

The summit has brought together nearly 30 African heads of state, over 200 CEOs from the private sector, investors, and other key stakeholders to discuss strategies for accelerating energy access across the continent.

Dr Shah highlighted the significance of the event, noting the ownership African nations are taking in shaping their energy future.

“The fact that more than two dozen African heads of state have come together to issue compacts, sign declarations, and outline policy and regulatory reforms is remarkable,” he said.

“This summit is not just symbolic—it’s a declaration of Africa’s commitment to its own future.”

A major highlight of the summit was the $3 billion commitment made by global financing institutions in May to prioritise electrification in Africa, particularly in sub-Saharan nations burdened by high debt. Dr Shah emphasised the importance of this funding.

“At a time when many African nations spend more on debt repayments than on health and education, this capital is critical,” he said. “No country on Earth has achieved universal electrification without substantial public investment. Not one.”

While acknowledging the ongoing challenges in financing, Dr Shah urged for rapid progress by mitigating risks and fostering new partnerships.

He pointed to the $65 million already mobilised through partnerships with the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB), though he recognised that this was just the beginning.

“The key is for countries to take the lead and move forward swiftly,” he said.

The summit also saw strong private-sector involvement, with over 200 CEOs, grid developers, and entrepreneurs participating. Dr Shah underscored the critical role of private companies in driving Africa’s energy agenda.

“The private sector brings ingenuity, technology, and innovative business models,” he said. “This summit is about creating the policy and public-sector frameworks that allow private companies to thrive.”

He urged development banks and governments to adopt new approaches that enable greater private-sector participation.

“The World Bank and the AfDB need to be ready to do things differently. They must open the door for private companies to take the lead,” he added.

Dr Shah highlighted the urgency of tackling Africa’s energy challenges, noting that access to reliable energy is a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and improved living standards.

“Africa’s population is growing rapidly, with millions of young people entering the job market each year,” he said. “Without reliable energy, it’s impossible to create the jobs and opportunities they need.”

He called on governments, development banks, and private investors to collaborate in building resilient energy systems that can benefit all Africans.

“This is not just about infrastructure—it’s about people,” he said. “If we fail to act, we risk deepening poverty and social instability.”

As the summit continues, Dr Shah urged African leaders and their international partners to remain committed to their shared vision of universal energy access for the continent.

“This is a defining moment for Africa,” he concluded. “The decisions we make today will shape the future of this continent for generations to come.”

The Africa Energy Summit, held in Tanzania, has provided a vital platform for leaders to discuss actionable solutions to Africa’s energy challenges. Stakeholders are hopeful about the continent’s energy future, but agree that urgent action is needed to achieve the 2030 goals.

“We must act decisively,” Dr Shah warned. “The world is watching, and Africa has the opportunity to lead.”