African Governments Urged to Prioritize Energy Access for Economic Growth

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), is urging African governments to take proactive steps to ensure that everyone has access to electricity. He says this is crucial for economic growth and development across the continent.

“Economies thrive on energy,” Dr. Adesina stated. He emphasized that without access to reliable electricity, countries cannot grow, industries cannot succeed, and people cannot improve their lives. Recognizing the importance of energy access, Dr. Adesina promised that the AfDB would work hard to provide electricity to 50 million people by 2030.

To achieve this big goal, Dr. Adesina said governments, businesses, and organizations need to work together. He talked about the importance of having ways to start and manage energy projects and ways to reduce the risks involved. These things can help attract private investors who can bring money to make energy projects happen.

One big initiative the AfDB is working on is called the “Desert to Power” initiative. It’s a big project that aims to create 10,000 megawatts of power in 11 African countries. Dr. Adesina explained that this project alone could give electricity to another 250 million people, on top of the 50 million the AfDB hopes to reach by 2030.

African Governments Urged to Prioritize Energy Access for Economic Growth

Dr. Adesina believes that if everyone works together and supports projects like “Desert to Power,” we could get electricity to about 500 million people across Africa. This would make a huge difference in many people’s lives and help Africa to grow and develop.


Energy is crucial for Africa’s development. Without electricity, it’s hard for businesses to operate, schools to teach, and hospitals to help people. But many people in Africa still don’t have electricity in their homes. This is a big problem, but there are solutions.

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Dr. Adesina thinks African governments need to do more to make sure everyone has electricity. He says they should attract private investors who can help build power plants and set up electricity networks. This would make it easier for people to get electricity in their homes and businesses.

But setting up electricity projects can be risky and expensive. That’s why Dr. Adesina thinks governments and organizations should work together to help reduce these risks. They can do this by providing money to start projects and by helping to make sure they run smoothly.

One project the AfDB is working on is called “Desert to Power.” It’s a big plan to build power plants in 11 African countries. Dr. Adesina believes this project could give electricity to 250 million people. This is a huge step forward and could help many African countries grow and develop.


Access to electricity is essential for Africa’s future. Without it, millions of people are left in the dark, unable to access opportunities for growth and development. Dr. Adesina’s call for African governments to prioritize energy access is a crucial step in addressing this pressing issue.

By working together and supporting initiatives like the “Desert to Power” project, African countries can unlock the potential of millions of people, providing them with the means to improve their lives and contribute to the continent’s growth and prosperity.

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In conclusion, Dr. Adesina’s message is clear: energy access is essential for Africa’s development, and it’s time for everyone to come together and make it happen. With the right support and investment, Africa can harness its vast energy resources to build a brighter future for all.

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