Global Leaders Push for Affordable Clean Energy Access

Leaders Advocate Stronger Collaboration for Sustainable Energy Access

 March 13, 2025

Leaders attending the international conference on sustainable energy access in Bridgetown, Barbados, have underscored the importance of regional and global cooperation to ensure affordable and reliable clean energy solutions for all.

Speaking at the high-profile event, Tanzania’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, emphasized his country’s commitment to expanding access to clean cooking energy. Under the leadership of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, Tanzania has set an ambitious target to enable 80% of its population to use clean cooking energy by 2034.

Highlighting Tanzania’s strategic energy initiatives, Dr. Biteko pointed to the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP), which is poised to generate 2,115 megawatts of electricity. This large-scale project is expected to significantly bolster the country's energy supply, fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for millions.

Dr. Biteko stressed that achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, which focuses on affordable and clean energy, requires synergized efforts between governments and the private sector. He called for increased investments in infrastructure and innovative energy solutions to ensure equitable access to sustainable energy sources.

Meanwhile, Barbados’ Prime Minister, Mia Mottley, echoed the urgency of coordinated international action. She urged nations to adopt a unified strategy to overcome the persistent challenges surrounding universal energy access.

Reflecting on the recent Mission 300 (M300) summit held in Dar es Salaam, Prime Minister Mottley lamented that over 600 million people in Africa still live without electricity. She described this as a global crisis that requires immediate and effective solutions.

“We must address these energy challenges, whether through local solutions or leveraging expertise from other nations,” Mottley asserted, emphasizing the need for global solidarity in the pursuit of universal energy access.

The conference continues to serve as a platform for policymakers and stakeholders to forge partnerships that will drive sustainable energy initiatives and accelerate the transition toward a cleaner, more inclusive energy future.