Africa must present unified front to demand just energy transition — Krapa

The Minister of State at the Ministry of Energy, Herbert Krapa, has called on African nations to present a united front in advocating for a just energy transition. 

He emphasised that the continent must leverage its vast hydrocarbon resources to industrialise sustainably, ensuring that its people benefit economically while transitioning to greener energy sources.

“Imagine Africa's economy without oil and gas. Picture, for one moment, the impact on socio-economic life—the job losses, the skills that would be deprived of our people if we removed this crucial resource from Africa's economy. In Ghana, we have already envisioned such a scenario,” said Mr. Krapa.

He reiterated Ghana’s firm stance on continuing to explore and produce hydrocarbon resources while simultaneously working towards sustainable, greener, and cleaner energy sources in the years ahead.

Mr. Krapa made these remarks at the official opening of the week-long 30th Africa Oil Week (AOW) Conference, Networking and Exhibition in Cape Town, South Africa.

He stressed the importance of collaboration, urging African nations to work together, harmonise their resources, and present a unified message regarding the continent’s energy future.

The Africa Oil Week event brings together governments, regulators, global operators, power producers, investors, and service providers, all working to develop policies, secure investments, and nurture partnerships aimed at promoting sustainable development and energy transformation across the continent and beyond.

Ghana’s delegation to the event includes Chief Director of the Ministry of Energy, Wilhelmina Asamoa, Chief Executive Officer of the GNPC, Joe Dadzie, and Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Commission, Egbert Faibille Jnr.

Mr. Krapa highlighted the essential role that hydrocarbons continue to play in Africa’s energy journey, stressing that even as the continent moves towards more sustainable and cleaner sources of energy, oil and gas remain a critical part of the energy mix.

“It is important that we develop with a unified approach. It is important that we speak with one voice. We must ensure that Africa takes control of its energy sovereignty while welcoming partners and businesses from across the world to develop our natural resources in an equitable and inclusive manner,” Mr. Krapa said.

He added that Africa must assert its influence when it comes to both domestic and international utilisation of its natural resources. “We must take charge of our own destiny as a region and remain competitive for international capital flows. Oil and gas will continue to be a vital part of that mix,” he stated.

Mr. Krapa called on African leaders to advocate for the continued development of the continent’s hydrocarbon resources, which he said are essential for accelerating socio-economic progress. He stressed that the modernisation of Africa’s fossil fuels can create wealth, generate jobs, secure energy for the future, and expand access to reliable power across the continent.

“By doing so, we can build a stronger economic outlook for the future, where prosperity is shared across our nations and our people have access to the opportunities they deserve,” Mr. Krapa concluded.