Policymakers, investors and researchers from across Africa are preparing to meet in Cotonou, Benin Republic, to examine reforms needed to expand electricity access and make power utilities financially sustainable.
The 12th Africa Think Tank Summit, scheduled for October 28 to 30, will focus on the continent’s energy deficit, with nearly 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa estimated to lack electricity. The event is being convened by the African Capacity Building Foundation in collaboration with Benin’s government and the African Union.
Organizers say expanding household connections will not by itself produce industrial growth if electricity remains unreliable, costly or difficult for utilities to deliver sustainably. Businesses dependent on generators face higher production costs and reduced competitiveness.
The summit is expected to bring together about 300 participants from more than 50 countries to discuss utility performance, regulation, financing, regional electricity trade and clean cooking access.
ACBF Executive Secretary Mamadou Biteye said the challenge was to turn commitments into workable reforms supported by capable institutions and African research. Dr Abdulkadir Shettima of the African School of Regulation similarly emphasized the role of effective regulation in attracting investment and improving reliability.
The meeting will seek practical policy recommendations that connect electricity access with manufacturing, job creation and wider economic transformation.
