Jinapor calls for Africa to develop solar value chain to boost energy security

The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr John Jinapor, has urged African nations to capitalize on their solar energy potential to bolster energy security, diminish reliance on imported fuels and spur industrialization. He pointed out that the escalating uncertainties in the global geopolitical climate, coupled with recent disruptions in energy markets, have underscored the necessity for countries to strive for energy self-sufficiency as a strategic priority.

Dr Jinapor highlighted that Africa's abundant sunshine offers a chance to cultivate resilient economies and diminish the continent's vulnerability to external energy shocks.

In Ghana, the Minister elaborated, such objectives are being pursued through the deployment of solar streetlights, the encouragement of rooftop solar installations, and the implementation of policies aiming to transition critical public installations to solar energy. However, he emphasized that Africa's solar aspirations must transcend mere adoption and utilization of solar technology; instead, the continent must transition from being a consumer of solar technology to becoming a producer and value creator.

This metamorphosis, he noted, necessitates technology transfer, local industrial capacity, and affordable long-term financing.

Addressing the audience at the Ninth Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly, Dr Jinapor stressed that the judicious use of Africa's solar resources could function as a catalyst for economic transformation, job creation, and enhanced energy independence. "Our abundant sunshine must become a catalyst for industrialisation, job creation, economic resilience and energy sovereignty," he concluded.