Recourse and partners call for an end to funding gas projects, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions in Africa at the AfDB annual meeting.
As the African Development Bank (AfDB) convenes for its annual meeting in Nairobi from May 27th to 31st, advocates from Recourse and partner organizations are pushing for a significant shift in investment priorities. Under the banner of “Green Growth for Africa: Stop funding Gas, Invest in Renewable Energy,” these advocates are urging the AfDB to divest from gas projects and redirect funds toward sustainable renewable energy initiatives across the continent.
The timing of this call for action couldn’t be more pertinent, with recent extreme flooding in East and Central Africa serving as a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to the impacts of climate change. Women and marginalized communities have borne the brunt of these disasters, underlining the urgent need for sustainable solutions.
Despite significant strides, with 43% of the African population still lacking access to electricity and many countries burdened by debt, there is a clear imperative for a swift and equitable energy transition. Renewable energy presents a viable alternative, offering cleaner solutions that foster economic growth and job creation.
At the forefront of this advocacy effort are spokespersons Fran Witt, Grace Ronoh, Chibeze Ezekiel, Gloria Kafui Kuzo, and Mamadou Barry, representing a diverse range of organizations and regions. They are joined by allies from Strategic Youth Network for Development (SYND) in Ghana and Action Solidaire International in Senegal.
Central to their argument is the role of the AfDB in shaping Africa’s energy landscape. Advocates stress the need for the bank to prioritize investments in renewable energy, highlighting the potential for long-term sustainable development. In contrast, continued funding for gas projects perpetuates a dangerous reliance on fossil fuels, exacerbating climate change and its associated impacts.
The agenda for the AfDB meeting includes key activities aimed at mobilizing support for renewable energy investments. These include a peaceful march on Saturday, May 25th, demanding accountability from the AfDB for people and planet. Additionally, the launch of the Power Shift Africa Report on Monday, May 27th, will provide critical insights into the bank’s investment practices.
A highlight of the meeting will be a side event on Tuesday, May 28th, organized by Recourse, Don’t Gas Africa, German Watch, Power Shift Africa, and the Africa Movement of Movements. Titled “Unlocking a Just and Equitable Transition Across Africa – the Role of the African Development Bank,” this event will provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss strategies for advancing renewable energy initiatives.
In conclusion, the call to action from Recourse and its partners underscores the urgent need for a paradigm shift in energy investments in Africa. By prioritizing renewable energy solutions, the AfDB has the opportunity to catalyze sustainable development and pave the way for a greener, more prosperous future for the continent.
