The Africa–Caribbean axis is reaching a strategic turning point by placing energy at the heart of its South–South cooperation. In a context marked by challenges in access to electricity and a strong dependence on energy imports, this partnership aims to strengthen economic exchanges, estimated at $1.8 billion by 2028 according to the ITC and Afreximbank, while accelerating investments in infrastructure and clean technologies between Africa and CARICOM.
The Africa–Caribbean axis is entering a new strategic phase of South–South cooperation, where energy is emerging as a central lever of economic integration. Driven by a logic of shared sovereignty and complementarity, this dynamic is supported by concrete potential: according to the International Trade Centre and Afreximbank, trade could reach $1.8 billion by 2028, subject to improvements in logistics infrastructure. In this context, African states and members of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) are multiplying joint initiatives to structure investments in energy infrastructure and accelerate the transfer of clean technologies.
“Africa and the Caribbean have maintained long historical ties for over 400 years, dating back to the beginning of the slave trade. We therefore need to start rebuilding our relations on the basis of this shared history, with a view to strengthening cooperation in the energy sector. We also see a great opportunity for joint work between the two regions, particularly in the field of renewable energy and energy spaces. Africa, just like the Caribbean, has significant quantities of renewable energy resources.”
Ken Mugambi, Managing Director of Trinity Energy Group – Kenya
Beyond economic ambitions, the challenge is structural: building more resilient energy systems for a continent where 600 million people still do not have access to electricity in 2025. This cooperation aims to reduce dependence on external shocks, while Africa remains paradoxically a net importer of refined petroleum products despite its vast resources. This energy cooperation is also accompanied by a logistical challenge: improving maritime routes and transport systems to facilitate trade flows between the two regions.
“There are a great many opportunities between the two regions to truly integrate the energy sector, energy access, and energy infrastructure as a way of reducing the energy deficit both regions are facing, as they are among the most energy-poor regions in the world.”
Ken Mugambi, Managing Director of Trinity Energy Group – Kenya
Beyond energy, this dynamic is part of a broader vision of shared sustainable development, where energy security becomes the driver of inclusive growth. In 2026, while Africa’s real GDP is expected to grow by 4.3% compared to 2.1% for the Caribbean, this transatlantic alliance is emerging as a crucial resilience lever against climate shocks, which already cost regional economies around 5% of their GDP annually.
