African Energy Summit: Tanzania welcomes leaders

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania – Leaders, dignitaries, and key stakeholders from across Africa and beyond are pouring in Tanzania for the  African Energy Summit that began Monday January 27, at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC).

The summit, themed “Mission 300,” aims to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030. It brings together African heads of state, development partners, energy sector stakeholders, and international organizations to strategize on bridging the continent’s energy gap.

Confirmed arrivals includes:

1. Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), was warmly received by Tanzania’s Minister of Finance, Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba, alongside other dignitaries. Dr. Adesina emphasized the importance of the summit in addressing energy challenges through collaborative efforts.
2. Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group, also arrived, expressing admiration for Tanzania’s achievements in rural electrification. He highlighted the transformative potential of the summit’s energy compact framework in driving sustainable development across Africa.
3. Amina Mohamed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, landed in Dar es Salaam, emphasizing the UN’s commitment to supporting Africa’s energy transition through inclusive and sustainable solutions.
4. H.E. Andry Rajoelina, President of Madagascar,
5. H.E. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia.
6. H.E. Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, President of Mauritania,
7. H.E. John Mutorwa, Deputy Prime Minister of Namibia, representing President Hage Geingob.
8. H.E. Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda, representing President Yoweri Museveni.
9. H.E. Muhammad Jallow, Vice President of Gambia, representing President Adama Barrow.
10. H.E. Thulisile Dladla, Deputy Prime Minister of Eswatini, representing the Kingdom of Eswatini.
11. H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of Nigeria, who arrived to champion discussions on Africa’s shared energy future.

Significance of the Summit

The summit is set to address pressing energy challenges, with a focus on increasing access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy. Delegates will deliberate on strategies to unlock investments, promote public-private partnerships, and strengthen regional cooperation.

A key highlight will be the adoption of the Dar es Salaam Declaration, reinforcing Africa’s unified commitment to achieving energy access for all. The summit also offers a platform for sharing success stories, including Tanzania’s exemplary progress in rural electrification, which has earned praise from global development partners.

As delegates convene in Tanzania, optimism abounds that the African Energy Summit will pave the way for transformative energy solutions, powering the continent’s growth and prosperity.