UAE Reaffirms Commitment To Partnership With Africa On Clean Energy Transition And Green Industrialisation

The UAE, represented by Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability, participated in the Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa (APRA) Investment Forum. Held at the Freetown International Conference Centre in Sierra Leone, this event gathered ministers and senior officials to discuss ways to speed up renewable energy deployment and sustainable industrial development across Africa.

Balalaa engaged with ministerial counterparts from Ghana, Djibouti, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, and Zimbabwe. They discussed creating favourable environments, financial innovation, and regional cooperation to unlock transformative renewable energy projects. "The UAE remains committed to deepening partnerships that support Africa in achieving its clean energy and industrialisation goals. Together, we can unlock greater investments, empower local communities, and advance shared prosperity," he stated.

The UAE reaffirmed its dedication to Africa's energy transition through long-term partnerships and investment cooperation. As a supporting member of APRA, the UAE aims to enhance collective support while aligning global engagement with Africa’s broader sustainable development goals. This commitment includes knowledge exchange and fostering scalable solutions that drive energy access and green industrial growth.

The opening session titled "Boosting Energy Transition and Green Industrialisation in APRA Countries" highlighted how partner countries like the UAE can contribute effectively. The discussions focused on reducing perceived risks and addressing structural barriers such as revenue models, infrastructure limitations, and market stability.

In parallel with its renewable energy initiatives, the UAE is strengthening economic ties with African nations through Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs). These agreements aim to enhance bilateral trade and investment opportunities in key sectors. This strategic approach underscores the UAE's role as a bridge between innovation, investment, and inclusive growth.

The Ministerial Debate officially launched the APRA Forum. It set the tone for subsequent technical sessions by grounding the agenda in lived policy experiences of APRA member states. This engagement reflects the UAE’s commitment to energy diplomacy that delivers shared value and sustainable impact.

Africa Green Investment Initiative

Reinforcing its partnership with Africa, the UAE highlighted its USD4.5 billion Africa Green Investment Initiative (AGII). Launched during its COP28 Presidency, this initiative aims to unlock Africa’s clean energy potential by delivering 15 GW of new clean power capacity by 2030. It also seeks to catalyse sustainable industrial growth while mobilising climate finance.

This initiative not only strengthens collaboration but also supports local communities by empowering them through increased investments. The UAE's efforts are geared towards advancing shared prosperity across the continent while ensuring a sustainable future for all involved parties.

With inputs from WAM