Namibia has joined the Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa (APRA), a cohort of African countries which also include Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Sierra Leone and Zimbabwe meant to accelerate renewables on the continent and pursue green industrialization.
The partnership was recently launched in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya during the first-ever Africa Climate Summit this month.
In the background, this initiative is also primarily being spearheaded by The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), together with Kenya, Denmark, Germany and the COP28 hosts, the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
“Today we celebrate a new beginning, and tomorrow the work must start. I invite others who share our vision to join us and help us write a new chapter in the history of this great continent—a chapter not defined by what Africa lacks but by what Africa leads,” William Ruto the president of Kenya said during the launch.
Adding to this, IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera said: “Although Africa has 17 percent of the world’s population, it has only received two percent of worldwide investment in renewable energy. This Partnership recognises a key opportunity for African nations to tap into their abundant renewable energy and mineral potential to drive green industrialisation locally while reinforcing the energy transition worldwide.”
The strategy of APRA is divided into three key areas: mobilising finance, providing technical assistance and capacity building, and unlocking the private sector.
“To grow and accelerate this initiative APRA encourages other countries and private sector organisations to join the partnership to, amplify efforts, lead ambitious climate action, and implement effective green energy strategies.”
Forward trajectory
Africa, with its abundant renewable energy resources, has the potential to become a global leader in clean energy production. However, several barriers, such as limited investment, inadequate infrastructure, and policy challenges, have hindered the realization of this potential.
The primary objective of APRA is to promote the utilization of renewable energy sources in Africa, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change. The initiative seeks to create an enabling environment for the development and implementation of renewable energy projects, foster technology transfer, and mobilize financial resources to support these endeavors. By doing so, APRA aims to contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union Agenda 2063.
To achieve its objectives, APRA has undertaken several key initiatives. These include:
Policy and Regulatory Frameworks: APRA works with African governments to develop and implement favorable policies and regulations that support the growth of renewable energy markets. This involves streamlining processes for project approvals, establishing feed-in tariffs, and providing incentives to attract private investment in clean energy projects.
Capacity Building and Technology Transfer: APRA facilitates knowledge sharing and capacity building activities among African countries to enhance technical skills and expertise in renewable energy. It also promotes technology transfer through partnerships with international organizations and facilitates the exchange of best practices and experiences.
Investment and Financing: APRA plays a crucial role in mobilizing financial resources for renewable energy projects in Africa. It works closely with development partners, financial institutions, and private sector investors to unlock funding opportunities and create a conducive investment climate for clean energy initiatives.
Project Development and Implementation: APRA supports the identification, development, and implementation of renewable energy projects across Africa. This includes providing technical assistance, conducting feasibility studies, and facilitating project financing to ensure the successful execution of initiatives.
The efforts of APRA will seek to yield significant benefits and impacts for Africa. By promoting renewable energy, APRA will help diversify the energy mix, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve energy access in remote and underserved areas. It will also stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance energy security in the region.
Furthermore, APRA has positioned Africa as a global leader in renewable energy, attracting international investments and fostering sustainable development.
Kenya, through APRA, is playing a pivotal role in spearheading the accelerated partnership for renewables in Africa. By fostering collaboration, promoting policy reforms, mobilizing investments, and supporting project implementation, APRA is driving the renewable energy agenda and contributing to the continent’s sustainable development.
With the UN Climate Change Conference COP28 set to take place in the UAE later this year, partnerships like APRA will play a crucial role in supporting African countries in achieving their development and climate goals.
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