- Adesina highlighted Africa’s leadership in renewable energy at the ongoing AfDB Annual Meetings 2024.
- Africa’s solar potential, at about 11 terawatts, positions it as a global leader in renewable energy.
- With ample platinum and other metals, Africa is crucial for the EV market and global energy transition.
At the ongoing AfDB Annual Meetings 2024, taking place in Nairobi, the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group, Dr Akinwunmi Adesina, underscored Africa’s pivotal role in spearheading renewable energy initiatives and facilitating green transitions globally.
Adesina eloquently articulated Africa’s remarkable solar potential, emphasising that it surpasses global levels, boasting 11 terawatts. This abundance positions the continent at the forefront of the renewable energy movement, poised to lead the charge towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
Moreover, Adesina highlighted Africa’s significant contributions to the Electric Vehicle (EV) market, noting that the continent holds 90% of the world’s platinum reserves and substantial copper, nickel, and lithium deposits. These resources are crucial components in the production of EV batteries, further solidifying Africa’s pivotal role in shaping the future of transportation and energy.
Beyond its contributions to the energy sector, Africa’s vast arable land and burgeoning agriculture sector play a crucial role in global food security. Adesina emphasised the importance of leveraging these resources effectively to meet the growing demands of a rapidly expanding global population.
With most of the world’s uncultivated arable land lying within its borders, Africa holds immense potential to feed its population and contribute significantly to feeding the world.
In conclusion, Adesina urged African nations to harness their rich resources for strategic rapid transformation and secure a prosperous future for future generations. Africa can shape a more sustainable and prosperous world by leveraging its abundant solar potential, natural resources, and fertile land.