President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa's role in pushing G20 initiatives for clean cooking and off-grid energy solutions during a pledging event in Johannesburg. The effort aims to mobilize financing for Africa's clean energy needs amid global investment gaps. Leaders pledged further support to harness the continent's renewable resources.
At the final pledging event of the 'Scaling Up Renewables for Africa' initiative in Sandton, Johannesburg, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the progress made over the past year through the G20. This includes advancing an action plan for clean cooking, bolstered by off-grid energy solutions. The event, held on the eve of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, capped a year-long campaign launched at the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro to secure financing for clean energy, electrification, and clean cooking across Africa.
Ramaphosa stressed Africa's untapped potential, stating, “The world’s most abundant renewable energy resources, as in solar, wind, and hydro. Yet some 40% of Africa’s population has no access to electricity. This energy poverty impacts nearly every facet of life, from clean cooking to access to medicines, to quality education, as well as to economic activity.” He added that the initiative seeks to expand energy access and support an energy-secure future that leverages the continent's human and technological potential.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addressed the investment disparity, noting that $2 trillion was invested globally in clean energy last year, but only 2% reached Africa. She advocated for increased funding, saying clean energy investments would drive economic growth and opportunities for entrepreneurs and youth. Von der Leyen highlighted Europe's commitments through the Global Gateway strategy, including modern power grids, transmission lines to rural areas, and battery storage for renewables.
Global leaders made additional pledges to Africa's energy fund during the event, underscoring the need for decisive action and international solidarity to accelerate Africa's clean energy transition.