Without reliable power and energy security, Africa cannot industrialise, develop, or attain meaningful prosperity, Ghana’s Energy Minister, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, has warned.
Delivering a keynote address at the Powering Africa Summit 2026 in Washington, DC, from March 19 to 20, Dr. Jinapor described the timing of the summit as a truly critical moment amid ongoing global energy shocks.
He spoke about the real impact of rising oil prices on African households and economies, as well as the urgent need to secure energy systems that are reliable, affordable, and sustainable.
He emphasised that Africa cannot industrialise in the dark, cannot develop without power, and cannot achieve meaningful prosperity without energy security.
According to him, this is about economic sovereignty, resilience, and empowerment.
Dr. Jinapor further highlighted the progress being made through reforms, regional integration, and strategic infrastructure, while stressing that financing remains the greatest barrier.
He said stronger partnerships between governments, investors, and development institutions are essential, as no country can achieve this alone.
“Africa must define its own energy future—one that is equitable, investment-ready, and development-centred,” he said.
Despite progress made in terms of electrification, several countries are still struggling to provide reliable power supply to businesses and households.
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