Windhoek, Namibia – As the world confronts the pressing challenges of climate change, Africa is emerging as a key player in the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions. With its rich array of renewable resources, the continent is well-positioned to lead a just and inclusive transition to clean energy, paving the way for economic growth and significant contributions to global decarbonization efforts.

The inaugural Global African Hydrogen Summit, set to take place from September 3-5, 2024, in Windhoek, Namibia, will gather policymakers, innovators, and stakeholders from across Africa and the world. The summit’s focus is to explore and harness Africa’s green hydrogen potential, supporting strategies that not only meet the continent’s energy demands but also drive an equitable economic transition.

Africa’s vast renewable energy resources—solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal—offer a promising path to a sustainable future. Leveraging these assets could reduce the continent’s dependence on hydrocarbons, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and create economic opportunities that benefit all segments of society. The African Union’s Agenda 2063 underscores the importance of this transformative growth, emphasizing the need for inclusive and environmentally sustainable development.

“The promise of a better tomorrow for Namibia’s children, especially for those in smaller, less privileged communities,” said William Shilamba, Director of energy.com.na, in a recent documentary about the Summit, reflecting the optimism surrounding the event.

A just transition for Africa hinges on policies and investments that ensure all communities can benefit from the green economy. The Summit will address key development levers, such as job creation, skills development, fair labor practices, capacity building, and technology transfer. By focusing on these areas, Africa can sidestep the inequalities that have marred other energy transitions around the world.

The Summit also advocates for inclusive initiatives, including women’s empowerment, youth engagement, community outreach, and support for MSMEs and startups. In the NBC television documentary The Road to Namibia, Toni Beukes, Head of ESG at Hyphen Hydrogen Energy, shared, “I’m responsible for looking after the socioeconomic development component of the project, which is all to do with how Namibians will benefit—so that’s the driver!”

The Global African Hydrogen Summit embodies the goal of fostering collaboration and partnerships between African nations and international stakeholders, including governments and private sector entities. However, achieving a just, fair, and inclusive economic transition necessitates the active involvement of often marginalized groups, including women, youth, and indigenous communities. Their participation is crucial to ensuring that no one is left behind in this transformative journey.

As Africa steps into its role as a leader in the green energy transition, the Global African Hydrogen Summit will serve as a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and action—setting the stage for a future where the continent’s vast natural resources power not only its own growth but also contribute to a more sustainable world.