The REPower Afrika initiative has been launched as an ambitious campaign uniting African regional community renewable energy projects to urge financiers and governments across the world to prioritize and increase investments in affordable, reliable and clean energy.
Africa is disproportionately bearing the
brunt of climate change, with 17 out of the 20 countries most threatened by
climate impacts located on the continent.
Recent severe weather events, including severe droughts in
Southern Africa and heavy rains in
Tanzania, Kenya, and Burundi have caused food shortages, fatalities, and
displacement. Despite these alarming trends, plans to expand fossil fuel
infrastructure, like the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), continue to
threaten both people and the planet.
The REPower Afrika campaign by 350Africa.org and
partners showcases the power and potential of community-led efforts igniting a
renewable energy movement across the continent.
“REPower Afrika marks the beginning of a
transformative journey where communities at the frontline of the climate crisis
take the lead in demanding accessible, affordable, and safe energy for all
while creating millions of green jobs,” said Landry Ninteretse, Africa Regional
Director at 350.org.
Communities are standing up against harmful
fossil fuels and demonstrating that renewable energy is a viable, equitable
alternative. These efforts are fuelling hope for an energy-secure future and
freedom from worsening climate impacts.
“Africa’s wealth of renewable energy
potential presents a great opportunity for the continent to not only address
its own energy needs but also potentially lead the global energy transition. By
working together with governments, civil society, and community leaders, we can
create a supportive environment for community-centered renewable energy
solutions, avert climate disaster, and ensure a sustainable future for all.
This is the time for Africa and the Global South to replace the obsolete energy
model and fuel a development powered by renewables," noted Landry.
Urgent Call for Renewable Energy Investment and Policy
Support
For Africa to realize a just transition to
renewable energy, significant investment from financial institutions and
developed nations is essential and urgent. African governments must create an
enabling framework, enacting policies and regulations that facilitate the
deployment of renewable energy and attract substantial investments.
“We are witnessing firsthand the devastating
impacts of climate change across Tanzania and Africa. From deadly floods and
erratic rainfall to prolonged droughts devastating crops and livelihoods, the
toll on our communities is profound. Despite global agreements like the Paris
Agreement, there's a glaring gap between promises made and the real-life
struggles of those most affected. Climate funding often misses the mark,
neglecting projects that could directly benefit vulnerable communities. It's
time for actionable policies that prioritize clean energy solutions, including
tax incentives and local manufacturing of renewable technologies, to secure a
sustainable future for Tanzania," said Rehema Peter, Founder of
Partnership for Green Future.
Renewable energy is not only a sustainable
choice but also a driver of economic development. While fossil fuel projects
like EACOP are projected to create 200-300 jobs in Uganda, the International
Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) projects that renewable energy
could generate 400,000 to 1.5 million jobs in East Africa by 2050.
Through the REPower Afrika campaign,
communities in the EACOP region (Uganda and Tanzania) are showcasing the
potential of renewable energy. Solar installations in communities along the
EACOP pipeline are improving people's lives, providing light for children to
study but also developing green jobs and enhanced energy access whilst
protecting the environment.
REPower Afrika is advocating for a future where
renewable energy powers our communities, protects our environment, and promotes
social and economic well-being.
Ten gatherings will be taking place across
Uganda and Tanzania, with solidarity actions taking place in the Democratic
Republic of Congo, Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Nigeria.
“It's time to expose the super-rich and the
most polluting industries and tax their billions. The money generated by a
global wealth tax could help drive forward the renewable energy transition with
the kinds of community-driven projects REPower Afrika is putting center stage,”
said Agnes Appiah-Hall, Global Campaigns Director at 350.org.
