The European Business Council for Africa

Africa in Transition – A Bright Future for Energy and Local Communities

20-21 May 

Africa in Transition – A Bright Future for Energy and Local Communities

SESA / ENERGICA

Brussels, Belgium

On May 20-21, EBCAM Secretariat had the pleasure of attending “Africa in Transition – A Bright Future for Energy and Local Communities” held by SESA and ENERGICA in Brussels. The discussions showcased technological innovation in Africa’s energy landscape and how local innovation and small business development through community are shaping a sustainable future.

 

The following aspects were key to the dialogue that ensued over the two-day event: 

  • Robust regulatory frameworks are urgently needed across e-mobility, solar, circular economy, and clean cooking sectors.
  • Success depends on inclusive, affordable business models and strong local supply chains.
  • The EU’s Global Gateway shifts from aid to equal partnerships, prioritising private investment.
  • EU Delegations are actively engaging African governments to align policy and innovation.
  • Tailored financial tools and risk-sharing models (e.g. Get Invest) are key to unlocking local entrepreneurship.
  • African startups are innovating in solar, farming, and climate resilience but face visibility and financing gaps.
  • Waste-to-energy and clean water projects (e.g. in Malawi, Sierra Leone, Madagascar) show measurable local benefits.
  • Electric mobility (buses in Kenya, scooters in Morocco) supports green urban transport and economic growth.
  • Capacity building through SESA and ENERGICA focuses on inclusion, peer learning, and ecological sustainability.
  • The EU will only fund renewable energy, no investment in fossil fuels.
  • Financing models must factor in currency volatility, which can inflate project costs.

 

The resounding takeaway from the conference was that community involvement is key to a successful green transition in Africa, from design to implementation is essential, to build with, not for, people, drawing on localised knowledge in response to local needs.

Find the report here.

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