A new report titled “Forecasting Green Jobs in Africa,” published by Shortlist and FSD Africa with analysis from the Boston Consulting Group, reveals significant growth potential in Africa’s green job market. The study forecasts the creation of up to 3.3 million direct green jobs across the continent by 2030, driven predominantly by the renewable energy sector, with solar power emerging as a major contributor.
The report marks the first comprehensive analysis of workforce needs within Africa’s major green value chains, focusing on five key countries: the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. These nations are expected to account for over 22% of the new green jobs, particularly in renewable energy, e-mobility, agriculture, construction, and manufacturing.
“Forecasting Green Jobs in Africa” emphasizes the crucial role of a skilled workforce in advancing green industries. It highlights the need for substantial investments in skill development and workforce mobilization to meet this demand. The report also underscores the potential for these new jobs to contribute to the formalization of African economies, introducing stable systems of remuneration, social security, and taxation.
Key strategies outlined in the report include targeted investments in high-potential sectors, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and developing supportive policies for green industries. The report also calls for further analysis to identify current skilled labor supply and address potential gaps.
The report provides a detailed forecast of green job creation in specific countries:
- South Africa: Between 85,000 to 275,000 new green jobs are expected by 2030, with solar energy leading at 140,000 jobs.
- Nigeria: The country is projected to generate 60,000 to 240,000 green jobs, primarily in aquaculture and poultry.
- Kenya: Expected to add 40,000 to 240,000 green jobs, with solar power contributing 111,000 jobs.
- Ethiopia: Forecasts include 30,000 to 130,000 new green jobs, mainly in hydropower generation.
- DRC: Predicted to create 15,000 to 45,000 new green jobs, with hydropower leading the sector.
Mark Napier, CEO of FSD Africa, emphasized the importance of a shared understanding of green job creation potential. “This report offers a practical methodology for forecasting green jobs and guides investments to make these jobs a reality,” he said.
Paul Breloff, CEO of Shortlist, added, “This report highlights the critical need for effective training, apprenticeships, and job/skill matching to meet the near-term demand and realize Africa’s green promise.”
As Africa advances its green economy, addressing challenges such as low utilization and intermittency of clean energy will be crucial. Investments in grid infrastructure and battery storage will play a significant role in supporting this transition and ensuring stability as the continent moves towards a greener future.
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