On the occasion of the Intra-African Trade Fair, Africa is showcasing concrete projects to accelerate its energy transition. In Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, a special economic zone dedicated to battery production has been launched, with support from Afreximbank and UNECA. The goal: to create thousands of jobs, capture added value locally, and position the continent as a major player in the energy sector of tomorrow. More in this report from our special correspondent in Algiers.
The energy transition has become a central challenge for Africa today. Without energy, it is difficult to build a strong and competitive economy. The continent already possesses the resources and skills needed, but it must now mobilize capital to transform this potential into a true engine of growth.
The energy transition in Africa means using our natural resources to support industrialization. By developing the battery value chain here, we capture wealth on the continent and advance our energy ambitions.
Helen Brume, Global Head of Project at Afreximbank
The IATF is highlighting concrete projects in the energy sector. In Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, a special economic zone dedicated to battery production is being launched, with support from the African Bank and UNECA. The goal: to capture added value locally, strengthen industrialization, and create at least 15,000 jobs. A strategic initiative that reflects the continent’s determination to turn its energy potential into a driver of growth.
The advantage of this project is that it will trigger a chain reaction. Once this program is up and running, it will serve as a model, a benchmark that can be replicated in other strategic regions of the continent.
Helen Brume, Global Head of Project at Afreximbank
Through such initiatives, Africa is showing that its energy transition is not just a necessity, but also a historic opportunity. And the IATF is becoming the showcase of this new momentum, where trade, innovation, and energy come together to shape the continent’s future.
