Woman in Conakry Anadolu Agency

Powering Africa’s Future

Greater international investment in Africa’s struggling electricity sector could be among the best ways to empower Africa’s youth and keep talent at home. That is why Africa’s energy needs will rank high on the agenda when G20 leaders meet later this year in Germany.

CONAKRY – When G20 leaders meet later this year in Hamburg, investment in Africa’s future will be high on their agenda. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has already committed to using her presidency of the forum to promote “sustainable growth and jobs” on the continent, with a focus on “investments in infrastructure and renewable energies.”

Energy is not a new need for many Africans. While parts of Africa are energy-rich, supply remains frustratingly poor for most of the continent. Indeed, the African Development Bank calculates that some 620 million Africans live without access to reliable electricity.

But with advanced economies now expressing support for efforts to broaden the availability of this basic human need, perhaps the time has come to flip the switch on one of Africa’s biggest developmental – and societal – challenges.

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