The European Union has unveiled a US $638 M funding package to strengthen electricity access and accelerate Africa’s transition to renewable energy.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the initiative in a video message to the Global Citizen Festival, held alongside the UN General Assembly in New York. She said the investment underscores Europe’s determination to support Africa’s energy future.
“Africa’s clean energy choices will shape jobs, growth, and climate stability for the entire world,” von der Leyen noted.
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Country-by-country support
Côte d’Ivoire: US $422 M to finance a high-voltage transmission line, boosting regional energy distribution, Cameroon: US $69.3 M for rural electrification projects, Somalia: US $53.4M to improve affordable renewable energy access, Republic of Congo: US $4.1 M for expanding solar, wind, and hydropower, Lesotho: US $30.4 M to advance hydro and wind projects under the Renewable Lesotho programme, Ghana: US $2.3 M to prepare a large-scale solar park and enhance cross-border power trade, Madagascar: US $38.9 M to extend mini-grid electrification in rural areas and Mozambique: US $15.2 M to support a low-carbon transition and attract private investment.
Despite vast renewable potential, around 600 million people in Africa about 43% of the population still lack access to electricity. This deficit limits healthcare, education, economic activity, and digital connectivity, particularly in rural regions.
The EU projects that expanded renewable investments could generate up to 38 million green jobs across Africa by 2030, turning the continent into a global clean energy hub. The funding package is part of the EU’s wider Global Gateway investment framework, which aims to mobilize public and private capital for sustainable infrastructure worldwide. Officials say the effort not only addresses Africa’s urgent energy needs but also supports global climate goals and long-term geopolitical stability.
