By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Honourable Alhaji Dr Kandeh Yumkella has underscored the importance of building strong and sustainable institutions that outlive individual personalities, as founding members of the Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa met this week in Copenhagen.
The meeting, held under the Seniors Working Group framework of the Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa, brought together key stakeholders to reaffirm the initiative’s mission of accelerating renewable energy deployment across the continent. The discussions focused on improving energy access, supporting green industrialization, and strengthening economic and social resilience in African countries.
Speaking during the two day engagement, Hon Yumkella emphasized that Africa’s energy transition agenda must be anchored on credible institutions rather than individual leadership. He noted that while visionary leaders play an important role, long term success depends on systems, policies, and institutions that can endure political changes and continue delivering results.
The meeting convened representatives of the four founding countries of APRA, namely Denmark, Germany, Kenya, and Sierra Leone. Also in attendance were officials from the International Renewable Energy Agency and the APRA Implementation Office hosted by the United Nations Office for Project Services in Nairobi.
Participants reviewed progress made since the establishment of APRA and reflected on lessons learned in advancing renewable energy projects across diverse national contexts. Discussions reaffirmed APRA’s core vision of adopting a holistic approach to energy transitions that integrates policy reform, infrastructure development, skills training, and private sector engagement.
A key outcome of the meeting was renewed commitment to strong political leadership at the highest level, coupled with coordinated action among governments, development partners, and the private sector. Delegates stressed the need to mobilize adequate financing and align public and private investments to unlock Africa’s vast renewable energy potential.
Hon Yumkella highlighted that building resilient energy systems is not only about power generation but also about creating institutions capable of planning, regulating, and sustaining the sector over time. He said effective institutions are essential for attracting investment, ensuring accountability, and delivering reliable energy services to communities.
The Copenhagen meeting concluded with a shared resolve to deepen cooperation among APRA partners and accelerate implementation efforts. As Africa continues to pursue a just and inclusive energy transition, participants agreed that strong institutions will remain central to turning ambition into lasting impact.
