Africa’s energy future hangs in the balance—and it’s the youth who could tip the scales. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Africa is home to 20% of the world’s population, it receives a mere 2% of global renewable energy investment. Is this just inefficient, or is it unjust? That was the bold question at the heart of Monday’s dialogue between Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy Samantha Graham-Maré and young African energy leaders. The event, part of the Power Shift: Youth and Ministry in Dialogue initiative under the Scaling Up Renewables in Africa (SURA) campaign, aimed to explore how youth-led innovation, community involvement, and skill-building can drive the continent’s renewable energy transition.
Held during Global Citizen NOW: Johannesburg week, the session brought together a diverse group—youth from the African Youth in Energy Network, grassroots organizers, clean-energy entrepreneurs, and policy experts—all united by a shared vision of a sustainable future. And this is the part most people miss: Graham-Maré stressed that Africa’s transition must be people-centered and rooted in justice. She highlighted South Africa’s own journey, emphasizing the need to prioritize communities, workers, and local solutions. “Energy access isn’t just about power—it’s about dignity,” she said, revealing that the ministry is exploring micro-grids, off-grid solar systems, and tailored support for informal settlements often overlooked by traditional electrification efforts.
Hlolelo Rampete, a youth catalyst and energy inclusion strategist, made a compelling case for youth-driven solutions. He pointed out that clean cooking—often underestimated—is a game-changer for Africa’s energy landscape. “Empower the youth, and the transition accelerates. Ignore them, and it stalls,” he warned. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Are we doing enough to tap into young people’s potential as catalysts for change?
Mpho Nyamathe, a climate activist and researcher, called for stronger “energy literacy” across communities. She argued that complex policies like South Africa’s Renewable Energy Master Plan need to be explained in simple, actionable terms. “Young people care deeply about the society we’re building, but they can’t participate if they don’t understand the transition,” she said. Nyamathe also urged expanding energy education beyond technical engineering to include community engagement, project management, and fundraising—skills critical for renewable energy projects.
Deon Bhekumuzi, Power Shift Africa adviser, offered a bold perspective: Africa’s energy challenges must be viewed through the lens of structural inequality. He argued that the continent’s reliance on foreign loans and colonial-era financial systems continues to stifle development. “Energy justice must be fast, fair, funded, and feminine,” he declared, emphasizing the need for community-centered solutions. But is this approach too idealistic, or is it the only way forward?
Gaylor Montmasson-Clair, funding director at Southern Transitions, shed light on another critical issue: small-scale energy entrepreneurs struggle to secure early-stage funding because financial systems favor large developers. “Banks will welcome you if you ask for R100 million, but ask for R50,000, and the barriers appear,” he said. Here’s a counterpoint to consider: Could this funding gap be a symptom of a larger systemic issue that prioritizes profit over progress?
Throughout the dialogue, one message was clear: Africa’s renewable energy future hinges on greater investment in skills, support for youth-led enterprises, and inclusive partnerships. Graham-Maré pledged to carry forward the ideas shared, stressing that the transition requires collaboration across government, civil society, business, and youth. “You’re not here to comment on policy—you’re here to shape it,” she told the attendees.
The SURA campaign will compile a policy reflection brief from the event within the next month, but the real question remains: Will these ideas translate into action? What do you think? Is Africa’s energy transition moving in the right direction, or are we missing the mark? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
