- Africa losses $150 billion annually to poor electricity supply, says Kola Adesina
- Seeks stakeholders support for equitable trade relations
- Seeks WTO support for the sector
The Executive Director Sahara Group, Mr Kola Adeshina, has asked African electricity sector stakeholders to find solutions to electricity challenges on the continent. This comes as the latest World Bank Energy Progress Report shows that 46% of Africans are without access to electricity. Mr Adeshina made this known when he spoke at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) virtual 2021 Horasis Global Meeting. He noted the impact of inadequate electricity supply on economic growth on the continent, saying the continent losses at least $110 billion annually due to poor supply.
“The Environmental Impact Analysis of conventional power sources should be the focal point of conversations with African presidents as well as key political and business leaders to ensure their support and agree to a collective and sustainable solution template”, he said.
“A strong commitment is needed to maintain open and free trade; to keep open borders and help the poorest countries, particularly least developed countries, survive the economic shock created by the Covid-19 pandemic”, Adeshina added.
He also urged the WTO to cooperate with African countries to find lasting solutions to the electricity challenges on the continent.