The International Commodity Summit 2025 has given a warm reception to the recent energy summit held by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in Botswana. Energy experts and political leaders from across the region gathered to discuss strategies for improving energy access and promoting sustainable development.
The summit, which attracted over 500 participants from 16 Southern African Development Community (SADC) and other African nations, highlighted the urgent need for a shift away from coal reliance, a significant contributor to climate change.
Moses Ntlamelle, a senior officer with SADC programs, emphasized the importance of an inclusive approach to the energy transition.
“The region is recommended to expedite just energy transition and explore the development of a regional renewable energy market,” said Ntlamelle.
Ntlamelle stressed the necessity of ensuring that no one is left behind during this transition, reinforcing the commitment to equity in energy access.
South Africa’s neighbouring country Botswana, is currently grappling with a severe energy crisis, exacerbated by its substantial reliance on coal-fired power plants that are approaching maximum capacity. Despite the country’s immense potential for solar energy, it faces difficulties in transitioning to renewable sources.
This situation has resulted in growing concerns about power shortages and an increased dependence on imported electricity, particularly from South Africa that continues to battle with its own energy crisis. The challenges are further intensified by inadequate infrastructure and insufficient private sector investment in renewable energy.
Over the last ten years, Southern Africa has achieved significant progress in expanding access to electricity, especially in urban areas. For example, Botswana’s electricity access increased from 58% in 2013 to 76% in 2022.
Similarly, Lesotho experienced a near doubling of its electrification rate, rising from 27% to 50% during the same period.
However, its rural and domestic electrification continues to be a major challenge. African countries such as Lesotho, Eswatini, and São Tomé & Príncipe have made notable advancements, increasing rural electricity access by 23%, 30%, and 24%, respectively. Statistics of 2022 show that only southern countries like South Africa, Eswatini, Botswana, and Namibia exceed the Sub-Saharan African average of 51.4% for overall electricity access.
The problem in Africa is that although progress has been made, many people, especially in isolated regions, continue to lack access to dependable energy sources. A solution for Africa would be to expand decentralized and off-grid energy solutions that remain essential in addressing this issue.
Southern Africa’s scarcity of fossil fuel infrastructure offers a unique chance to transition directly to a renewable energy-based economy. The region must also implement policies that promote the development of skills and local production of renewable energy components, which are crucial for creating jobs and sustaining economic growth in Africa.
In Africa, the improvement of regional governance and aligning policies are crucial for enhancing integration, and maximizing the potential of the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP). The enhancement of greater transparency in power trading and increased cross-border electricity exchanges will enhance energy security and affordability.
H.E Dr. Amani Abou-Zeid, the African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, acknowledges the advancements made in Africa’s energy sector since the previous Specialized Technical Committee (STC) meeting in Cairo.
Zeid pointed out that while COVID-19 has presented significant obstacles to the sector and the implementation of various continental plans, the Commission has coordinated efforts with partners to maintain the sector’s strength and contribute to recovery.
The commissioner stressed that providing universal and modern energy access to all Africans is a formidable challenge that necessitates cooperation and partnerships at multiple levels.
“Substantial mobilization and coordination efforts are necessary to effectively engage stakeholders in addressing the primary obstacles to energy sector development in Africa, including policy, regulatory, technical, financing, and market barriers,” said Zeid.
She also urged stakeholders to intensify their efforts to expedite energy development across the continent.
Vice President of Hibarri Cherrylee Samson states that collaborative efforts towards the African Single Electricity Market (AfSEM) will further enhance the potential for energy trade across the continent.
“With its abundant resources and growing commitment to sustainability, Southern Africa is well-positioned to lead Africa’s energy transformation,” said Samson.
The ICS2025 summit aims to focus on renewable energy, encourage innovation, and implement inclusive policies. Through these, Africa can position itself for a fair and sustainable energy transition for the future.
The truth is that through investing in clean energy infrastructure and fostering regional cooperation, all citizens will have access to affordable and reliable energy, and that is where we need the most investment right now in Africa.
