Online Reporter
Judith Phiri in Victoria Falls
AS Africa’s energy transition is gaining momentum, there are calls to tap into the vast potential of solar energy to expand electricity access, support agriculture, strengthen health and education services, power enterprises and build resilient communities.
Speaking at the 8th Meeting of the ISA Regional Committee for the Africa Region Official Opening Ceremony in Victoria Falls on Wednesday, Mrs. Marie-May Jeremie, Hon’ble Minister, Ministry of Environment, Climate, Energy and Natural Resources, Chair and Vice-President of the ISA Assembly for the Africa Region, said Africa’s energy transition is gaining momentum, yet deployment remains far below its immense
potential.
“Solar energy can expand electricity access, support agriculture, strengthen health and education services, power enterprises and build resilient communities. For us in Seychelles, solar energy storage and strong grids are essential to improving energy security and reducing our dependence on imported fuels and addressing climate vulnerabilities,” she said.
“We therefore welcome the proposed country partnership frameworks with ISA to advance rooftop and distributed solar with integration, capacity building, project preparation and affordable finances.”
She said they were of the strong view that this regional committee meeting must help to translate Africa’s abundant sunlight into investable projects and measurable development outcomes.
Mrs Jeremie said through stronger partnerships, credible pipelines and innovative finance, they can move from ambition to implementation.
“I look forward to your engagements today and tomorrow, and I look forward to the outcomes that will come from this meeting.”
