A8: The Power of Partnerships: Driving Energy Access in Sub-Saharan Africa

Lack of access to reliable electricity for approximately 600 million people across sub-Saharan Africa impedes economic growth, constrains the development of public services, and limits access to information and communication technologies. Power Africa is at the forefront of fostering partnerships between governments, private sector entities, and international development agencies to link public and private sector development goals and resources for accelerated access to clean energy. Partnerships are fundamental in addressing infrastructure gaps, leveraging finance, addressing gender inequalities in energy access and benefits, and scaling sustainable energy solutions to meet the growing demand for energy in the region. As the global community focuses on achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7—affordable and clean energy for all—collaborations among key stakeholders have proven to be game changers in addressing the multifaceted barriers to energy access. This session aims to showcase the "Power of Partnerships" by bringing together diverse voices from the public, private, and development sectors.