- Ghana Minister of State at the Ministry of Energy, Herbert Krapa, has called on African nations to present a united front in advocating for a just energy transition.
- He reiterated Ghana’s firm stance on continuing to explore and produce hydrocarbon resources while working towards sustainable, greener, and cleaner energy sources.
Ghana Minister of State at the Ministry of Energy, Herbert Krapa, has called on African nations to present a united front in advocating for a just energy transition.
He emphasised that the continent must leverage its vast hydrocarbon resources to industrialise sustainably, ensuring that its people benefit economically while transitioning to greener energy sources.
“Imagine Africa’s economy without oil and gas. Picture, for one moment, the impact on socio-economic life—the job losses and the skills that would be deprived of our people if we removed this crucial resource from Africa’s economy. We have already envisioned such a scenario in Ghana,” said Mr. Krapa.
He reiterated Ghana’s firm stance on continuing to explore and produce hydrocarbon resources while working towards sustainable, greener, and cleaner energy sources in the years ahead.
Mr. Krapa made these remarks at the official opening of the week-long 30th Africa Oil Week (AOW) Conference, Networking and Exhibition in Cape Town, South Africa.
He stressed the importance of collaboration, urging African nations to collaborate, harmonise their resources, and present a unified message regarding the continent’s future energy.
Mr. Krapa highlighted the essential role that hydrocarbons play in Africa’s energy journey, stressing that even as the continent moves towards more sustainable and cleaner energy sources, oil and gas remain a critical part of the energy mix.
“It is important that we develop a unified approach. We must speak with one voice. We must ensure that Africa takes control of its energy sovereignty while welcoming partners and businesses from across the world to develop our natural resources equitably and inclusively,” Mr Krapa said.
He added that Africa must assert its influence regarding domestic and international utilisation of its natural resources. “We must take charge of our own destiny as a region and remain competitive for international capital flows. Oil and gas will continue to be a vital part of that mix,” he stated.
Mr. Krapa called on African leaders to advocate for the continued development of the continent’s hydrocarbon resources, which he said are essential for accelerating socio-economic progress. He stressed that the modernisation of Africa’s fossil fuels can create wealth, generate jobs, secure energy for the future, and expand access to reliable power across the continent.
“By doing so, we can build a stronger economic outlook for the future, where prosperity is shared across our nations and our people have access to the opportunities they deserve,” Mr. Krapa concluded.