At COP28 parties concluded to triple renewable energy capacity globally and doubling the global average annual rate of energy efficiency improvements by 2030; and to transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems, in a just, orderly and equitable manner, accelerating action in this critical decade, so as to achieve net zero by 2050 in keeping with the science (paragraph 28, CMA.5; COP 28 energy package). During the Summit of the Future in September parties reaffirmed these commitments in the Pact for the Future. Simultaneously, all UN Member States must deliver on their 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at its center. In the context of the COP 28 energy package, SDG 7 of ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all by 2030 is of particular relevance.
With just about 5 years until 2030, the urgency for profound and decisive action is clearer than ever.  The world is still far from reaching both agreements - the COP 28 energy package and the SDGs. Still to this date, nearly half of the continent‘s population lives without access to electricity, forced to rely on traditional biomass for cooking and heating, with severe consequences for health and well-being. At the same time, around 60% of the world's best solar sites are located on the African continent. How can a continent so rich in renewable energy potential be left behind in the global energy transition? The answer lies in investment. Africa has so far been sidelined, representing 20% of the world’s population, yet receiving only 2% of global investment in renewable energy. This disconnect highlights a glaring injustice: while Africa has the resources and potential to lead the world in renewable energy, it remains on the margins of the global energy revolution. Africa should be at the forefront of efforts to meet the global collective goals outlined in the GST and its associated COP28 energy package.

To this end, we must seek levers and enablers to ensure that our joint goals for global energy access and transition will be implemented everywhere in the world without leaving anyone behind. The side-event aims to discuss pathways towards ramping up renewable energy capacity and fossil fuel independence on the African Continent, while ensuring universal access to energy for all Africans.