The Minister of State at the Ministry of Energy in the Republic of Ghana, Herbert Krapa, has highlighted the energy security challenges in the West African sub-region, with a call for a holistic approach that addresses geopolitical dynamics, promotes sustainable development and fosters regional integration.
This, he said, would help the sub-region to harness its energy potential to drive economic growth, enhance regional stability and contribute to global energy security.
Currently, West Africa has a total population of 451,486,444 people, per the United States estimate.
However, out of this, only 42 per cent have access to electricity.
Security of electricity supply is one of the major challenges in the sub-region, despite the region’s vast energy resources, including oil and natural gas, sunshine, wind and hydro.
Speaking on ‘Geopolitical Dynamics and Energy Security: Implications for the West Africa Region’ at the 9th ERERA Regional Electricity Forum in Accra, the capital of Ghana, Mr Krapa mentioned that energy security has become a central theme in all geo-political debates due to its critical role in shaping the economic, political and strategic interests of nations.
He opined that every nation’s energy security is based on the assurance and diversity of fuel supply, reliability of energy infrastructure and financial viability of the energy sector.
He noted that there is a linkage between energy and national security.
“Stability of energy supply is not merely an economic concern but a fundamental pillar of national and regional security,” he said.
Mr Krapa said harnessing West Africa’s energy resources effectively is crucial for domestic development but was of the view that understanding the dynamics of electricity trade security in the ECOWAS region is important for several reasons, particularly in the regional context.
Touching on factors which are essential to attracting investments into the energy sector, Mr Krapa mentioned political stability, robust diplomatic relations and transparent regulatory frameworks as crucial factors that attract international investors.
Conversely, he said geopolitical tensions, inconsistent policies and inadequate infrastructure can deter investments, highlighting the need for cohesive international relations strategies that promote stability, cooperation and sustainable development across the region.
He called on West African nations to prioritise regional integration and multilateral partnerships to enhance energy security and resilience.
“By fostering dialogue and cooperation, countries can collectively address common challenges, leverage shared resources and promote stability and prosperity across the region,” he concluded.
In a welcome address, Chairman of ERERA Mr. Kocou Laurent Rodrigue Tossou said holding the forum after the 23rd CCRO was a continuation of consultations, which is an integral part of ERERA’s approach.
The forum brought together power sector generators and regulators such as the ministries in charge of energy, parliamentarians, the academia and researchers, consumer groups and other civil society organisations, investors and technical and financial partners on the current concerns of the regulation of the electricity sector in West Africa.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com