The African Development Bank (AfDB) remarked that the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit, which held in Dar es Salaam, was a 'watershed moment' for Africa's energy future, hailing the summit as a turning point in Africa’s energy transformation. The impressive lineup of leaders from across the continent spoke truth to possibilities that could emerge from that summit. However, what comes next will determine whether the continent truly turns its energy future around.

Beyond the numerous commitments that were made and ambitious goals that were set, Africa must focus on key areas to ensure that efforts from the summit translate into lasting change.

The African Development Bank (AfDB) and the World Bank jointly pledged $48 billion at the summit as their commitment to the development of Africa’s energy sector; however, history has shown that financial commitments do not always translate into impact. Many African nations struggle with bureaucratic inefficiencies, policy inconsistencies, and project delays. Governments must prioritize the execution of energy plans with clear accountability mechanisms. Ethiopia, for example, has set an aggressive goal to electrify 3.4 million households annually, but without strong implementation frameworks, such targets will remain aspirational.

A significant takeaway from the summit was the need for private sector engagement in energy financing, particularly in transmission and distribution. The Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Makhtar Diop, emphasized that private investment in Africa’s energy infrastructure remains insufficient. Governments must create enabling environments through regulatory reforms, tax incentives, and guarantees that de-risk investments. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TotalEnergies, Patrick Pouyanné, highlighted the urgent need for expanded grid infrastructure to support renewable energy deployment. Without addressing these bottlenecks, Africa will struggle to attract the capital required for large-scale energy transformation.

One of Africa’s most significant challenges in energy access is reliance on foreign technology, financing, and expertise. Countries like Benin have taken steps to reduce energy dependency, but more needs to be done. Investing in local manufacturing of solar panels, battery storage, and grid components will not only cut costs but also create jobs and drive economic growth. Additionally, training local engineers and technicians will ensure sustainability and reduce reliance on foreign expertise.

The governance of state-owned utilities is a critical factor in Africa’s energy crisis. Ghana’s President John Mahama highlighted the importance of getting governance right, especially for state-run electricity providers. Many utilities suffer from inefficiencies, political interference, and financial mismanagement, leading to power outages and unreliable service. Implementing transparent procurement processes, independent regulatory oversight, and performance-based management will be essential to transforming Africa’s energy sector.

Beyond electricity access, Africa faces a significant challenge in providing clean cooking solutions. The summit acknowledged that the lack of clean cooking methods contributes to 600,000 deaths annually and costs nearly $800 billion in economic losses. Countries must take immediate action by promoting pay-as-you-cook LPG models, efficient biomass stoves, and modern cooking technologies. Tanzania has set a target of 80% clean cooking adoption by 2034, providing a model for other nations to follow.

While concessional financing and donor contributions remain essential, Africa must develop innovative financing mechanisms to drive energy projects forward. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, Aminu Umar-Sadiq, highlighted the importance of structuring capital in ways that attract equity in local currency. The IFC’s newly announced $1 billion fund for decentralized renewable energy is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to ensure Africa’s financial ecosystem can sustain long-term energy investments.

It's time for Africa to take more action. 

The Dar es Salaam Declaration, which commits governments to energy reforms, will be presented at the African Union Summit in February 2025. Additionally, twelve African nations—including Nigeria, Tanzania, and Senegal—will lead the implementation of Energy Compacts as part of Mission 300. However, success will depend on the political will to translate commitments into action.

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan captured the broader vision, stating that the summit '...goes beyond energy access. It is about empowering families, lifting millions out of poverty, and providing hope and opportunities for youth'. 

Africa has a historic opportunity to redefine its energy landscape. The next 12 to 18 months will be crucial in determining whether the continent can overcome its long-standing energy challenges and build a sustainable future for its people.