The East African Community (EAC) partner states have affirmed their dedication to bolstering energy efficiency and harnessing renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and geothermal power for sustainable development across the region.
In a statement released on the community's official website, partner states disclosed their ongoing initiatives to tap into renewable energy potential and promote energy conservation. These initiatives include revising national renewable energy laws, implementing energy management regulations, and fostering strategies for energy efficiency and conservation.
During the 16th Sectoral Council of Energy's Ministerial Session held at the EAC Headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania, partner states provided updates on investments in wind and solar energy infrastructure. Notable efforts include Burundi's solar mini-grid projects and Kenya's involvement in wind and solar initiatives aimed at boosting renewable energy contributions to the national grid.
Rwanda and Tanzania have reported increased investments in solar energy projects, while Uganda is prioritizing solar energy deployment for rural electrification. Additionally, partner states are exploring mini-hydro projects and transitioning biomass energy sources toward cleaner alternatives.
The ministers acknowledged advancements in fossil fuel projects, including Kenya's commercial oil discovery in the South Lokichar basin and Tanzania's preparations for the 5th licensing round of oil and natural gas exploration blocks.
In a bid to promote petroleum exploration and development, the Sectoral Council approved the 11th East African Petroleum Conference and Exhibition 2025 (EAPCE’25) scheduled for March 5th to 7th next year in Tanzania.
Addressing power connectivity challenges, the region boasts a total power supply installed capacity of 7,381.67 Megawatts, with efforts underway to bridge electricity demand and consumption gaps.
During the Ministerial Session's opening, Chairperson Shaib Hassan Kaduara underscored the vital role of the energy sector in achieving socio-economic development within the Community. He invited partner states to the official launch of Tanzania’s Julius Nyerere Hydropower Plant on February 25th, emphasizing its capacity to alleviate electricity deficits in the region.
In her remarks, EAC Deputy Secretary-General Ms Annette Ssemuwemba emphasized the region's abundant energy resources and the imperative to transition toward reliable and cost-effective energy solutions to meet development needs.
Also in attendance were the Minister of Hydraulic, Energy, and Mines from Burundi, Engineer Ibrahim Uwizeye, and Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for EAC, ASALs, and Regional Development, Ms Peninah Malonza, among others.