The minister of energy and green transition Dr John Jinapor has delivered the keynote address at the ongoing Powering Africa Summit 2026 at a truly critical moment, amid ongoing global energy shocks.
The minister spoke candidly about the real impact of rising oil prices on African households and economies, and the urgent need to secure energy systems that are reliable, affordable, and sustainable.
He emphasised that Africa cannot industrialise in the dark, cannot develop without power, and cannot achieve meaningful prosperity without energy security. This is about economic sovereignty, resilience, and empowerment.
He highlighted the progress being made through reforms, regional integration, and strategic infrastructure, while stressing that financing remains the greatest barrier.
Stronger partnerships between governments, investors, and development institutions are essential, as no country can achieve this alone.
Africa must define its own energy future; one that is equitable, investment-ready, and development-centred.
Jinapor Calls for Urgent Energy Security Measures at Powering Africa Summit 2026
The Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has delivered a keynote address at the ongoing Powering Africa Summit 2026, warning of the growing impact of global energy shocks on African economies.
Speaking at what he described as a critical moment for the continent, the minister outlined the far-reaching effects of rising oil prices on households and national economies, stressing the urgent need to build energy systems that are reliable, affordable, and sustainable.
Dr. Jinapor underscored the central role of energy in Africa’s development, noting that industrialisation and economic growth cannot be achieved without stable power supply. He framed energy security as essential to economic sovereignty, resilience, and long-term empowerment across the continent.
The minister also highlighted ongoing progress through policy reforms, regional integration efforts, and investments in strategic infrastructure. However, he identified financing as the most significant challenge facing the sector.
He called for stronger collaboration between governments, private investors, and development institutions, emphasising that no single country can address the continent’s energy challenges alone.
Dr. Jinapor further urged African nations to take charge of their energy future by pursuing solutions that are equitable, investment-ready, and aligned with development priorities.