Africa Energy Summit in Rwanda empowers solutions and collaboration of Africa

The Africa Energy Event held in Kigali has been hailed as a significant step toward empowering African nations to address the continent’s energy challenges without outside intervention.

Organized by Informa Markets, the event brought together leaders, policymakers, and energy experts to discuss solutions crafted by Africans, for Africans, setting a new precedent for intra-continental collaboration.

According to Adi Yusufu, Exhibition Director for Africa Energy, this event offers a transformative platform for African stakeholders to discuss their challenges and aspirations.

“We are moving away from the days when Africans had to travel to Europe or other Western nations to discuss African issues. The solutions to Africa’s problems lie within Africa itself,” Yusufu shared.

Rwanda was selected as the venue because of its visa-free access for African nationals, reducing the barriers that often restrict participation in these vital conversations.

A key theme of the conference is inclusivity and the removal of logistical hurdles.

“We’ve eliminated the barriers of costly visas, hotel stays, and flights, allowing Africans to come together more freely,” Yusufu said.

This choice of location enables a level of freedom and authenticity in dialogue that many attendees have long desired.

Yusufu emphasized the event’s role in encouraging true collaboration across African nations. Historically, energy discussions have often been fragmented or led by foreign interests, with African stakeholders working in isolation.

“This event bridges the gaps by bringing together Africans from across the continent and around the world to exchange best practices and learn from each other,” Yusufu stated.

The event aims to foster partnerships that encourage shared growth and learning, with Rwanda’s accessible and welcoming environment further enhancing this collaborative spirit.

Yisufu highlighted that this event is not merely a talk show; it is action-driven. Ministers and officials, including Malawi’s Prime Minister and Rwanda’s Minister of State for Infrastructure, participated actively, giving attendees unique access to policymakers.

“Our commitment is to follow up on the promises made here and hold everyone accountable,” he added, underscoring Informa Markets ’ dedication to ensuring that these discussions yield tangible results. The organizers plan to reconvene next year to track progress and evaluate commitments made at the conference.

As energy poverty remains a critical issue across the continent, Yusufu stressed the importance of unity in tackling it.

“No single country has a monopoly on solutions. Unity is essential,” he said.

Hosting the event in Rwanda, a country that promotes visa-free access for all Africans, reinforces the message of solidarity.

Yisufu remarked on the irony that while regions that once imposed borders on Africa, like Europe, have largely removed them, African nations are only now moving toward open borders and mutual cooperation.

Yisufu’s words also highlight Africa’s need to create its own energy solutions to reduce reliance on external models.

“We must recognize our shared challenges and work together to create sustainable solutions. By fostering partnerships and encouraging intra-African collaboration, we are setting the foundation for a stronger, self-reliant Africa,” Yusufu concluded.

Informa Middle East, through its Africa Energy Event, is not only creating an avenue for discussion but is committed to concrete action in the African energy sector.

“Our success is measured by the value we provide to attendees rather than by accolades,” Yusufu stated, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to community impact.

The support from Rwanda’s Ministry of Infrastructure and the Rwanda Convention Bureau has been invaluable, he added, noting that it allowed Informa to create a seamless experience that reflects true African hospitality and unity.

The Africa Energy Event in Kigali is poised to leave a lasting impact, setting a precedent for African-led solutions and driving collaboration across the continent. With an eye on accountability and action, the event is a catalyst for a self-sustained, unified approach to Africa’s energy future.