Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called for greater African participation in the development and management of the continent’s energy resources, stressing the need for stronger local companies, deeper technical capacity and strategic partnerships to secure Africa’s energy future.
Speaking at a dinner ahead of Africa Oil Week in Accra, the Vice President, who represented President John Dramani Mahama, said Africa’s growing energy needs require a collective effort involving governments, investors, regulators, international energy companies and African businesses. She noted that while the global energy landscape is changing, the continent continues to require dependable electricity to power industries, hospitals, schools and communities, as well as investment that can create jobs and strengthen local economies.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said Africa must move beyond simply possessing natural resources to playing a greater role across the energy value chain. She called for stronger African companies and technical institutions, while urging countries to balance renewable energy, energy efficiency and emerging technologies with oil and gas resources.
She also stressed the importance of regional cooperation, including improved gas infrastructure, power interconnections, investment corridors and technology partnerships, to maximise the benefits of Africa’s energy resources.
The Vice President further assured investors that Ghana remains open to serious, long-term and mutually beneficial investment, saying the country welcomes the capital, technology and expertise that international partners bring.
The dinner formed part of activities ahead of Africa Oil Week, a major platform that brings together governments, energy companies, investors, policymakers and other industry stakeholders to discuss Africa’s oil and gas sector, investment opportunities and the continent’s broader energy future.
