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At the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels on October 9–10, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a new €618 million funding package to accelerate Africa’s renewable energy transition, bringing total EU commitments this month to over €1.16 billion. The initiative, part of the Global Gateway strategy, positions green energy as the cornerstone of EU–Africa cooperation.
Africa holds 60% of the world’s best solar potential, yet nearly 600 million people still live without access to electricity. This funding aims to bridge that gap, transforming energy access into a driver of economic and social growth. The EU’s investments serve dual goals — addressing climate change while securing Europe’s access to critical minerals and technology markets emerging across Africa.
Through its Scaling Up Renewables in Africa program, the EU plans to mobilize up to €300 billion by 2027 for sustainable infrastructure. The first wave of targeted projects includes:
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Kenya: €55 million for rural electrification and grid expansion.
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Uganda: €60 million for energy storage and smart grid systems benefiting 250,000 people.
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DRC: €90.14 million to modernize Kisangani’s network and support industrialization.
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Mauritania: €125 million to build a regional transmission corridor.
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Togo: €199 million for a solar and storage hybrid system.
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Cape Verde: €39 million for renewable power generation.
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Zambia–Tanzania: €30 million for an interconnection project strengthening regional energy trade.
These investments will create jobs, stimulate local industry, and enhance Africa’s capacity to become a global energy supplier.
Meanwhile, the United States is also expanding its footprint through multi-billion-dollar gas and LNG projects in Mozambique and beyond. At African Energy Week 2025, Senator Ted Cruz called Africa “a strategic partner” and urged stronger U.S. involvement in the continent’s transition.
While global powers compete, Africa stands to gain. The continent now has the leverage to choose its partners, develop local manufacturing, and build a sustainable, self-reliant energy ecosystem. As von der Leyen said, “A transition to clean energy will create jobs, stability, and growth.”
The real test ahead is ensuring these billions translate into African-owned progress — where local expertise, innovation, and youth power drive the renewable revolution.