Jinapor calls for Africa to develop solar value chain to boost energy security

The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr John Jinapor, has called on African countries to harness their solar energy potential to strengthen energy security, reduce dependence on imported fuels and drive industrialisation.

He said the growing uncertainties in the global geopolitical landscape and recent disruptions in energy markets had reinforced the need for countries to pursue energy self-sufficiency as a strategic priority.

Dr Jinapor noted that Africa’s abundant sunshine presents an opportunity to build resilient economies and reduce the continent’s exposure to external energy shocks.

“In Ghana, we are advancing this agenda through the installation of solar streetlights, promoting rooftop solar and implementing policies to transition critical public installations to solar energy,” he said.

He, however, stressed that Africa’s solar ambitions must extend beyond the installation and use of solar technology to the development of a complete value chain.

According to him, the continent must move from being a consumer of solar technology to becoming a producer and value creator, a shift he said would require technology transfer, local industrial capacity and affordable long-term financing.

Dr Jinapor made the remarks in his opening address during a discussion on “Global Solar: Then, Now and Next” at the Ninth Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly.

He said the effective utilisation of Africa’s solar resources could serve as a catalyst for economic transformation, job creation and greater energy independence.

“Our abundant sunshine must become a catalyst for industrialisation, job creation, economic resilience and energy sovereignty,” he said.