In a recent announcement at the third edition of the African Local Content Roundtable in Abuja, the African Petroleum Producers Organisation (APPO) revealed that a staggering 600 million people on the African continent are living without access to any form of modern energy. This revelation, made by Omar Farouk, the Secretary General of APPO, sheds light on the disheartening reality of energy poverty in Africa.
Farouk emphasized that Africa faces the highest rate of energy poverty, with a large portion of the population deprived of access to electricity and modern energy sources. He expressed his concern over Africa’s disproportionate dependence on foreign oil and gas technologies, despite being an active player in the sector for decades.
Calling for a paradigm shift, Farouk urged African countries to prioritize the development of their own oil and gas sectors. He highlighted the urgent need for Africa to harness its own abundant and affordable energy resources.
“We must break free from the notion that dependence on foreign energy sources is the norm. It is alarming that Africa, with its vast potential, has the highest proportion of its population living in energy poverty. Over 600 million Africans lack access to electricity, and millions more are deprived of basic modern energy. What is even more concerning is that a significant 70% of the oil we produce is exported, as well as 70% of our gas.”
Farouk stressed that Africa should be empowered to utilize its own abundant sources of energy, primarily oil and gas, to improve the living conditions of its people and alleviate poverty. He pointed out that developed countries have previously utilized these resources to advance their own societies, and Africa should be afforded the same opportunity.
By focusing on local content development and fostering self-reliance, Africa can seize control of its energy future and create a positive impact on the lives of its citizens. This includes investing in renewable energy technologies, implementing sustainable practices, and building the necessary infrastructure to ensure universal access to modern energy throughout the continent.
It is crucial for African nations to prioritize the advancement of their own energy sectors, not only for economic growth and development but also for the fulfillment of basic human needs. By doing so, Africa can pave the way towards energy security and a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
