Seventeen African countries have endorsed Sustainable electricity plans under Mission 300, a World Bank and African Development Bank initiative, to extend electricity access to millions across the continent by 2030 through targeted reforms, infrastructure expansion, and private sector engagement.
In a significant step toward transforming Africa’s energy landscape, seventeen African nations have committed to actionable reforms and structured plans to significantly scale up electricity access. This pledge is part of Mission 300 — a visionary partnership led by the World Bank Group and African Development Bank Group, aimed at connecting 300 million Africans to reliable electricity by 2030. As highlighted in the official World Bank press release dated September 24, 2025, the commitment was made at the Bloomberg Philanthropies Global Forum with the endorsement of tailor-made National Energy Compacts by countries including Benin, Botswana, Burundi, Cameroon, Comoros, the Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, São Tomé and Principe, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
Energy Compacts Fueling Progress
These National Energy Compacts serve as robust blueprints to guide public spending, administrative reforms, and stimulate private investment in the power sector. Each compact is uniquely designed to address the country’s specific infrastructure needs, financing frameworks, and policy enhancements. Since Mission 300’s inception, over 30 million people have already gained electricity access, with more than 100 million additional connections underway.
World Bank Group President Ajay Banga emphasized the transformative power of electricity, calling it foundational to job creation and economic growth, while African Development Bank President Dr. Sidi Ould Tah highlighted how reliable power acts as a multiplier for small businesses and digital economies, directly impacting livelihoods.
African Heads of State, including Presidents from Botswana, Cameroon, Comoros, and Congo, along with others, spoke passionately about their countries’ renewable energy potential and reform roadmaps. Leaders outlined strategies to harness abundant natural resources, attract investments, and ensure universal, sustainable, and affordable energy access—key drivers toward economic growth, equity, and climate resilience.
Read More: FIFA Unveils Dynamic Mascot Trio for 2026 FIFA World Cup
With these renewed commitments under Mission 300, Africa is advancing toward a future where electricity accessibility is universal and sustainable. The collaborative efforts among governments, development partners, and private stakeholders underline the continent’s resolve to eradicate energy poverty, fuel industrialization, and create inclusive economic opportunities. As noted in the World Bank release, delivering on these compacts will be crucial for Africa’s resilient and prosperous future.
