IsDB Chairman Highlights Energy Access as Fundamental Right at Mission 300 African Energy Summit

Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group Chairman Muhammad Al Jasser underscored the urgency of expanding electricity access in Sub-Saharan Africa during the Mission 300 African Energy Summit, which commenced on Monday in Dar es Salaam.

The two-day summit, aimed at connecting 300 million people to electricity by 2030, brought together global energy leaders to discuss sustainable energy solutions, economic growth, and job creation.

Addressing Africa’s Energy Deficit

Speaking on a panel discussing the role of international partners in energy transformation, Al Jasser highlighted the severe energy crisis affecting the continent, where 600 million people remain without electricity. He emphasized that this shortfall hinders education, healthcare, and economic development, asserting that reliable energy access should be recognized as a fundamental human right rather than just a developmental goal.

Regulatory Reforms & Private Sector Involvement

Al Jasser stressed the importance of regulatory reforms and the active participation of the private sector to drive progress. He called for a governance model where legislators, regulators, and service providers operate independently while collaborating effectively to achieve Mission 300’s objectives.

The IsDB chairman reiterated that the bank’s strategy is built on three key pillars: strategic investments, innovative financing, and strong partnerships. He urged international stakeholders to align their efforts in ensuring sustainable and scalable energy access across Africa.

Mission 300’s Focus Areas

The Mission 300 initiative prioritizes investments in power generation, transmission, and distribution, alongside regional interconnections and sector reforms. These efforts are designed to enhance the quality, reliability, and affordability of electricity, fostering a long-term impact on economic growth and social development in Africa.

The summit continues with discussions on financing mechanisms, technological advancements, and policy frameworks necessary to accelerate Africa’s energy transition.