AU Commissioner Lerato Dorothy Mataboge Outlines Vision for Energy #UNGA81

At the Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI) on the margins of UNGA81, held on September 20, 2026, H.E. Ms. Lerato Dorothy Mataboge, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy at the African Union Commission (AUC), presented a comprehensive vision for enhancing energy across the continent. She emphasized the critical role of energy in driving socio-economic development and sustainability in Africa.

The AU Commissioner discussed existing frameworks and strategic initiatives, including the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), which aim to facilitate investment and innovation in the energy sector. calling for increased collaboration among governments, private sector stakeholders, and international partners to mobilize resources and expertise necessary for achieving energy goals in Africa.

Commissioner Mataboge highlighted key roles that energy plays in Africa's socio-economic development including:

• Access to reliable energy sources that attract investments and fosters job creation across various sectors;

• Energy as a factor for building and maintaining infrastructure, including transportation, healthcare, and education, which are vital for overall socio-economic progress;

• Promoting renewable energy sources, to enable Africa address environmental challenges while ensuring energy security and sustainability, aligning with global climate goals;

• Improved energy access to lift communities out of poverty, enhancing living standards and enabling equitable opportunities for education and health services;

• Building robust energy infrastructure to facilitate cross-border trade and collaboration, strengthening regional ties and contributing to collective development goals; and

• Investing in energy innovation to foster technological advancements that can drive efficiency and sustainability in various industries.

Through these avenues, the AU Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, reiterated that, energy serves as a cornerstone for transforming Africa's socio-economic landscape and achieving the Africa Agenda 2063 as well as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As Africa strives for energy sustainability, this dialogue at GABI served as a crucial platform for sharing best practices and inspiring action. "By aligning efforts with the AU's vision, stakeholders can contribute to a unified approach that empowers communities and drives economic growth". Concluded Commissioner Mataboge.

Convened by the African Union and the United Nation and organised by UN Global Compact, the Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI) panel discussion on Energy in Africa, encouraged all stakeholders in the area of energy, including organisations, Member States, industry leaders, policymakers, and investors, to engage in this vital conversation and work collectively towards a sustainable energy future for Africa.

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Mrs. Esther Azaa Tankou | Head, Media and Information Division | Information and Communication Directorate, AU Commission, and the Communication Adviser for the AU Permanent Observer Mission to the United Mission (UN) | Mobile: WhatsApp +1 (347) 812-7195 | E-mail: [email protected]