Let Africa power itself, Tanzania insists at Global Energy Forum

ST PETERSBURG: IN a bold insistence, Tanzania said Africa must power itself and should no longer be denied the rights to harness its own energy destiny, Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Doto clarified in a Russian city today.

At one of the world’s most prestigious economic gatherings, Dr. Biteko delivered a powerful message that reverberated across the halls of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum:

Speaking on Today June 19, 2025, during the St Petersburg International Forum in Russia, Dr Biteko stressed the importance of energy freedom for Africa, especially as many Africans still lack access to clean and affordable energy.

In a speech that struck a chord with leaders from around the globe, Dr. Biteko called for energy justice for Africa, where millions still live without access to clean, reliable electricity.

“Africa must be allowed to use its resources—coal, gas, water, and sunlight—to produce energy. The world cannot treat all countries as if they are the same when our realities are so different,” he declared.

Dr. Biteko did not shy away from highlighting the hypocrisy of the global energy debate.

He pointed out that while Africa contributes only 3 to 4 percent of the world’s carbon emissions, it is often shackled by some of the harshest environmental restrictions, even as industrialized nations continue to burn fossil fuels freely.

Backed by a firm national agenda, Dr. Biteko outlined Tanzania’s energy development strategy—including a 120-megawatt coal-powered project aimed at expanding power access to underserved communities.

But it’s not just coal on the table. Tanzania is investing heavily in solar, gas, and hydroelectric projects, showcasing a diverse approach to energy development that balances progress with sustainability.

“Every country must be free to choose how to meet its energy needs—responsibly, but independently,” he stated.

Dr. Biteko used the forum to emphasize the strength of Tanzania-Russia relations, calling for deeper cooperation in energy development, skills transfer, and financial investment. “With mutual respect, our countries can achieve great things,” he noted.

Russia’s Minister of Energy, Sergey Tsivilev, responded warmly, affirming his country’s readiness to support Africa’s energy ambitions. He underscored that President Vladimir Putin supports deeper collaboration with the continent, especially in areas that drive shared growth.

Adding momentum to the conversation, NJ Ayuk, Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, echoed Dr. Biteko’s sentiments. He urged the world to listen to African leaders and called on Russia to facilitate more private investment in Africa’s energy future

“Africa has the potential. What we need is the freedom—and the respect—to act on it,” Ayuk said.

He also commended Tanzania for leading by example and encouraged other African nations to draw lessons from its bold, pragmatic approach.

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With representatives from over 140 countries, the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum has become a stage where future-defining decisions are made. Dr. Biteko’s speech was more than a national statement—it was a rallying cry for a fairer global energy order, one where Africa is not a bystander, but a leader.

“Africa has the resources, the ambition, and the right to power its future,” Dr. Biteko said in closing. “The world should support that journey, not stand in the way.”