The African Energy Chamber (AEC), recognized as the voice of Africa’s energy sector, continues to advocate for a multi-energy approach to fuel industrialization and electrification across the continent. With 600 million Africans lacking electricity and 900 million without clean cooking solutions, the AEC stresses that Africa must leverage all available energy resources to address its energy crisis effectively.
However, organizations like the International Energy Agency (IEA) continue to promote the notion that Africa can transition to renewables without relying on oil and gas. While rapid renewable adoption may work for developed nations, such a model is impractical for Africa. The AEC is therefore calling for an end to anti-fossil fuel narratives, a sentiment echoed at the 15th IEA-IEF-OPEC Symposium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event featured key global energy leaders, including Tommy Joyce, Acting Assistant Secretary for International Affairs at the U.S. Department of Energy, who highlighted the critical role of oil and gas in alleviating Africa’s energy poverty. AEC Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk reinforced the need for an Africa-centric energy strategy, aligning with remarks from Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al-Ghais, and other high-level participants.
Africa’s energy transition cannot simply replicate the Western model without deepening energy poverty. The continent’s dependence on fossil fuels, limited infrastructure, rising population, and unique energy demands require a diversified approach. South Africa, for instance, relies on coal for 72% of its electricity, but ongoing operational issues at coal-fired plants have led to crippling load-shedding that disrupts businesses and industries. Natural gas, which offers a cleaner and cost-effective solution, could stabilize the country’s energy grid and benefit neighboring nations like Zimbabwe, which also faces power shortages.
With over 620 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of proven gas reserves, Africa has the potential to monetize its resources and power economic growth. Yet, the IEA continues to discourage new gas projects, arguing that existing fields are sufficient. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Countries like Mozambique, a leader in hydropower-based renewables, still have only 40% electricity access. With over 100 tcf of gas reserves, upcoming LNG developments present a strategic opportunity to accelerate electrification and economic progress. A balanced energy mix, including gas, would be vital for nations like Angola, Tanzania, Senegal, Mauritania, and the Republic of Congo.
Ultimately, Africa must take control of its own energy future. While fossil fuels may be viewed negatively in global climate discussions, they remain a cleaner and more practical alternative to the solid biomass and kerosene that 85% of Africans rely on for cooking today.
“To end energy poverty in Africa, global institutions like the IEA must stop promoting the illusion that Africa can meet its energy demands without fossil fuels or should sacrifice economic growth for externally imposed climate targets,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “The U.S., Europe, and China have achieved significant advancements in health and economic prosperity through unrestricted access to coal, oil, and natural gas. Why should Africa be denied the same opportunity?”
