UN says energy transition is ‘unique opportunity’ to transform Africa

The deputy director of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) this Saturday said the energy transition is a “unique opportunity” to transform African economies, paving the way for a “greener” future.

“We must accelerate the adoption of just and sustainable transition processes that require long-term structural changes and adequate investment,” Antonio Pedro said during a speech at the African Ministers’ Conference of Finance, Planning and Economic Development in Victoria Falls. in Zimbabwe.

He stressed that African countries “have a unique opportunity to actively transform countries and move towards inclusive, low-carbon and resource-efficient economies,” a need arising from economic instability, climate change, conflict and mistrust that have worsened since the last Ministerial last year.

Among the most important areas in terms of economic transformation, with a catalytic and comprehensive effect on the Sustainable Development Goals, António Pedro listed changes in food systems, prioritizing regional value chains, reducing risk for investors and accelerating the implementation of a free trade agreement on the continent.

In addition, António Pedro championed the need to expand access to affordable energy, digital connectivity, improved education and social protection systems, and job creation.

“Finally, we must strengthen our response and collective action to combat climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution by implementing the Nairobi Declaration, which recognizes that climate change is the greatest challenge facing humanity and the greatest threat to life on Earth,” he said. added.

The meeting of the committee of African experts took place in Victoria Falls until Friday, followed by side events this weekend and culminating with a meeting of finance, planning and economic development ministers on Monday and Tuesday.