Inclusive Africa Energy Conference

Background and Context

The Africa Energy Security Coalition (AESC) recognizes the critical importance of addressing energy security in Africa. Despite the continent’s abundant renewable resources, fossil fuels remain a significant component of Africa’s energy mix, essential for economic development, industrialization, and poverty alleviation. As the world gears up for COP29, it is crucial for Africa to advocate for a balanced and pragmatic approach to energy transition that includes the responsible use of fossil fuels alongside the promotion of renewable energy.

Objectives

The primary objective of the Africa Energy Conference is to gather key stakeholders to discuss and develop a resolution advocating for the inclusion of fossil fuels in the COP29 agenda. The conference aims to:

1. Highlight the role of fossil fuels in Africa’s current and future energy landscape.
2. Discuss  sustainable and responsible strategies for fossil fuel use.
3. Explore the integration of fossil fuels with renewable energy sources to ensure      energy security and economic growth.
4. Formulate a unified African stance on energy that can be presented at COP29.

Conference Structure

Day 1: Setting the Stage

• Opening      Ceremony: Welcome address and keynote speeches from African leaders,      energy experts, and international organizations.

Session 1: The Current Energy Landscape in Africa

• Presentations       on the state of energy in Africa, including renewable and non-renewable       sources.
• Discussions       on the socio-economic impacts of energy access and security.

Day 2: Bridging the Gap

Session 2: The Role of Fossil Fuels in Africa’s Energy Mix

• Panels and discussions on the importance of fossil fuels for industrialization and development.
• Case studies from African countries on effective fossil fuel management.

Session 3: Integrating Renewables and Fossil Fuels

• Innovative approaches to combining renewable energy with fossil fuels.
• Technological advancements and best practices in energy integration.

Day 3: Formulating the Resolution

Session 4: Policy Frameworks and Sustainable Strategies

• Workshops  on creating policy frameworks for sustainable fossil fuel use.
• Collaborative  discussions on balancing environmental concerns with economic needs.
• Closing Session: Drafting the Resolution
  • Collaborative drafting of the resolution for COP29.
  • Presentation  and endorsement by conference participants.
  • Closing remarks and commitments from stakeholders.

4. Expected Outcomes

1. Resolution  Document: A well-formulated resolution advocating for the inclusion of fossil fuels in COP29 discussions, highlighting Africa’s unique energy needs and development goals.
2. Policy Recommendations: Comprehensive policy recommendations for integrating fossil fuels and renewables in a sustainable manner.
3. Enhanced Collaboration: Strengthened partnerships among African nations, and      between Africa and international stakeholders, to support a balanced   energy approach.

5. Participants

The conference will bring together:

• Governmentrepresentatives from African nations.
• Energy sector stakeholders, including fossil fuel and renewable energy companies.
• International organizations and development partners.
• Academic and research institutions.

Civil society organizations and community leaders.