Ethiopia spearheads regional renewable energy integration in East Africa

Addis Ababa, April 16, 2024 (FBC) – Habtamu Itefa, the Minister of Water and Energy of Ethiopia, has asserted his nation’s pivotal role in spearheading the creation of robust energy linkages with neighboring countries.

Minister Habtamu is currently in attendance at the World Future Energy Summit convened in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, where he has addressed a side event on the vital role of pan-African cooperation in facilitating the development of renewable energy infrastructure and ensuring comprehensive energy security across the continent.

Habtamu stated that Ethiopia has dedicated unwavering attention to fostering regional cooperation, with the aim of laying a solid foundation and strengthening critical energy network linkages.

He further elaborated that Ethiopia, in close partnership with its development partners, is playing a pivotal role in bolstering and sustaining the Eastern Africa Power Pool, with plans to extend supporting infrastructure like power lines, roads, and telecommunication networks to neighboring countries.

Highlighting Ethiopia’s experience in harnessing its substantial hydropower potential, the Minister asserted that the nation has emerged as a regional hub for green energy in East Africa.

He also underscored the commendable commitment demonstrated by the private sector in actively engaging with the government to drive energy sector development through strategic public-private partnerships.

Habtamu emphasized that engaging in energy development investments within Ethiopia would serve to significantly contribute to job creation and bolster peace and security across the region.

As the World Future Energy Summit champions innovative solutions to critical challenges, Ethiopia’s leadership in the renewable energy transition is poised to inspire and guide the continent’s sustainable future.