African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy will host a Youth Energy Roundtable, promoting greater youth involvement in Africa's energy sector.
As Africa emerges as a vibrant hub for oil, gas, renewable energy, and cutting-edge technologies, the involvement of young people in the sector is paramount to introducing fresh perspectives, fostering innovation, and shaping policies that drive inclusive growth. The African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy 2024 conference, scheduled from November 4 to 8 in Cape Town, will highlight the crucial role of youth in Africa's energy landscape through a dedicated Youth Energy Roundtable.
Africa is home to the world’s youngest population, with over 60% under the age of 25. Consequently, the Youth Energy Roundtable aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders and equip them with the requisite skills, knowledge, and professional networks to maximize their full potential, drive sustainable resource development, and navigate the evolving energy landscape. AEW 2024: Invest in African Energy will host discussions around emerging clean technologies, inclusive energy policies, and the imperative for investing in youth-based programs.
AEW: Invest in African Energy is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
With over 600 million Africans lacking access to reliable electricity, there is a significant emphasis on promoting gas-to-power projects and introducing renewable energy and off-grid technologies to rural communities. Both sub-sectors present substantial opportunities for young entrepreneurs. Financial support is crucial in enabling youth to actively participate in Africa's energy sector and contribute to global energy solutions. This includes access to education, training, and entrepreneurship opportunities. Accordingly, the Youth Energy Roundtable will explore strategies to enhance access to capital and foster collaboration between financial institutions and the private sector to support youth-led initiatives.
In line with these endeavors, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) – as the representative of Africa's energy sector – is dedicated to supporting youth development through initiatives such as the annual Energy Scholarship Award under its African Energy Education Fund. This program provides financial assistance and educational resources to young Africans pursuing studies in the oil, gas, and energy fields. By investing in the next generation of leaders, the AEC is laying the foundation for a skilled workforce capable of driving Africa's energy future.
Moreover, the African Youths in Energy Network, an organization established to empower young Africans to become energy entrepreneurs, offers a valuable platform for young professionals to collaborate on sustainable energy projects, access job placement assistance, and participate in educational workshops and professional development opportunities. Initiatives such as energy service provider Eenovators' Youth in Energy Empowerment Program in East Africa are also instrumental in equipping young graduates with essential skills through mentorship, training, and practical internships.
The participation of young people is further supported by local content policies throughout the continent. South Africa's Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program mandates significant local sourcing, which stimulates employment opportunities within the clean energy sector. Similarly, Nigeria's Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act prioritizes local products, services, and employment. It is supported by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, which forms strategic partnerships with industry stakeholders and educational institutions to enhance infrastructure, formulate local content strategies, and promote STEM education initiatives. These initiatives are designed not only to reduce unemployment but also to create a skilled youth workforce.
In Namibia, the Namibia Youth Energy Forum, sponsored and endorsed by NAMCOR, the national oil company, seeks to empower young Namibians to lead the sustainable energy transition. The forum provides support to establish a vibrant network of young leaders who drive positive change in the energy industry through education, advocacy, and collaboration.
In Mozambique, the Industrial and Commercial Institute of Pemba, supported by the Mozambique LNG project, has trained over 100 young graduates in construction mechanics and hospitality and tourism. The program aims to train 390 young people in essential economic fields, including oil and gas processing, industrial electricity, general mechanics, and hospitality and tourism.
In Senegal, the Support Project for Skills Development and Youth Entrepreneurship in Growth Sectors aims to improve African lives by supporting professional organizations in targeted sectors. The five-year project, funded by the African Development Fund, will assist 250 companies in the hydrocarbon sector, train 2,000 young people and generate 36,000 jobs. Meanwhile, the Youth-led Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation for Sustainable Urban Development project in Cameroon aims to reduce wood fuel demand by teaching urban youth to recycle metal waste into energy-efficient stoves, reducing waste and promoting sustainable urban development. Similarly, the Youthinkgreen program in Egypt promotes sustainability and entrepreneurship among youth through educational programs, encouraging hundreds to innovate and create clean solutions in renewable energy, energy management and water sustainability.
“Our youth are not just the future of Africa’s energy sector – they are its present. Their innovation, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives can and will drive the transformation we urgently need when it comes to energy access. We must empower and invest in our youth today to ensure a prosperous and sustainable energy future for Africa,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.
During the African Energy Week (AEW) 2024, the Youth Energy Roundtable will emphasize the event's dedication to leveraging the immense potential of Africa's youthful population. It will function as a pivotal platform to empower young leaders and actively contribute to shaping a sustainable energy future that will benefit generations to come.