S.Africa: Minister for Harnessing Africa’s Renewable Energy Potential

South African Energy Minister, Oct 2024 Photo: @centralnewsza

November 6, 2024 Hour: 1:35 pm

“Africa’s potential for renewable energy is unmatched globally,” Ramokgopa stressed in his address.

On Wednesday, South Africa’s Minister of Electricity and Energy Kgosientsho Ramokgopa called on African countries to harness the potential of Africa’s rich renewable energy resources to forge an inclusive and sustainable path for the continent.

He made the call when delivering a keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 2024 African Energy Week, held in Cape Town from Nov. 4 to 8 under the theme “Invest in African Energies: Energy Growth through an Enabling Environment.”

“Africa’s potential for renewable energy is unmatched globally,” Ramokgopa stressed in his address. “The continent is rich in diverse renewable resources, each offering a path toward sustainable growth that is less dependent on fossil fuels and more aligned with global climate commitments.”

He further noted that Africa’s renewable resources offer a solution to energy poverty and a strategic advantage in supporting local industries and value-added activities.

🇷🇺🌍 Russia will take part in the round table of the African Energy Week in South Africa

The event will be held on November 6 in Cape Town and will be a continuation of the dialog between Russia and African countries. The Russian delegation will be headed Deputy Energy Minister pic.twitter.com/jXklz4NbAF
— Unbiased, Unreported News (@Kiraguri254) November 3, 2024

“If coupled with the right policies, the transition to renewable energy can drive African industrialization by enhancing the beneficiation of critical minerals essential for both the renewable and high-tech industries globally,” Ramokgopa said.

“This path also strengthens Africa’s geopolitical positioning in the global clean energy transition, making the continent not just a provider of raw materials but a central player in the entire value chain,” he added.

The minister also promised that South Africa will use its presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) in 2025 to champion Africa’s energy priorities on a global platform.

“In leading the G20, South Africa will focus on strategic interventions to address Africa’s unique energy needs and support a resilient, inclusive future,” said Ramokgopa, adding that these interventions will position Africa as an active participant in the global energy transition while addressing the continent’s development needs.