Coalition faults African leaders for including gas in energy transition plan

A coalition of African and global civil society groups has expressed concern over the inclusion of natural gas in Africa’s energy transition agenda.

The criticism follows a resolution made by African heads of state at the recent Mission 300 energy summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

At the summit, African leaders committed to expanding electricity access for 300 million people on the continent while increasing the share of renewable energy.

They also highlighted the need to “unlock Africa’s full energy potential, including gas, as well as hydropower, solar, wind, geothermal, and other clean energy sources”.

The Mission 300 initiative, launched by the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank (AfDB), aims to reduce energy poverty, as well as provide affordable and reliable energy solutions.

However, the Don’t Gas Africa campaign and other civil society organisations have condemned the decision, arguing that reliance on fossil gas contradicts global efforts to transition away from carbon-intensive energy.

The group argue that nuclear energy is not a sustainable option for Africa, citing concerns about nuclear waste management, high project costs, and potential safety risks.

“The Mission 300 pledge seems to entrap Africans in a fossil gas-based system at a time when renewables are growing exponentially worldwide,” the group stated.

“While efforts to accelerate cleaner energy production are commendable, the inclusion of nuclear and fossil gas poses significant risks that undermine sustainability and socio-environmental integrity.

“Nuclear energy may be low-carbon, but its waste remains hazardous for thousands of years.

“The economic burden of cost overruns and delays in nuclear projects diverts critical resources that could be invested in renewables such as solar and wind.”

The coalition implored African leaders to prioritise renewable energy investments and avoid long-term dependence on fossil fuels.

They urged policymakers to focus on solar and wind, “which not only reduce emissions but also empower communities through localised energy production, job creation, and resilience-building”.

Omar Elmawi, convener of Africa Climate Movement Building Space, said the Mission 300 vision is achievable only if it is done right.

“Not by enriching fossil fuel companies at the expense of everyone else. Africa’s abundant, untapped renewable energy resources are the key to a successful Mission 300,” Elmawi added.

Chibeze Ezekiel, executive coordinator, Strategic Youth Network for Development, said: “We are in full support of cleaner and sustainable forms of energy sources which amount to significant co-benefits such as climate solutions, high potential for youth employment in Africa and environmental protection.”

Dean Bhekumuzi Bhebhe, senior just transitions advisor, Power Shift Africa, argued that despite Africa’s vast renewable energy potential, “it is unfortunate that African leaders in Dar es Salaam have made a dangerous gamble by choosing to anchor this initiative to gas”.