The event brought together policy leaders, investors, researchers and practitioners to examine how collaborative frameworks can help shape a fair, sustainable and African-led energy transition.
Opening remarks were delivered by Elizabeth Sidiropoulos, Chief Executive of SAIIA, and H.E. Mubarak Ajlan Al-Kuwari, Executive Director of Doha Forum, who emphasised that Africa’s energy transformation represents both a regional opportunity and a global responsibility – one that requires strategic alignment, foresight, and trust between partners.
“Africa’s energy future will be shaped by partnership, not competition,” said Al-Kuwari. “Through platforms like Doha Forum, we can bridge regions and perspectives, foster dialogue, and help translate shared vision into shared responsibility – ensuring that the transition ahead delivers progress that is fair, inclusive, and sustainable.”
Elizabeth Sidiropoulos, Chief Executive of SAIIA, said that tackling the energy deficit in Africa is integral to enabling the continent to meet its development objectives and Agenda 2063. “Energy is essential for African economies to move up the industrial value chains. Considering possible energy futures and how we can work together with partners in achieving the most desirable outcomes are crucial,” she remarked.
The session highlighted opportunities for renewable and transitional energy-led industrialization, investment frameworks that encourage innovation, and governance models that help countries anticipate and navigate future shocks.
Moderated by Dr. Njeri Mwagiru, Senior Researcher at SAIIA, the esteemed panel featured:
- Rwodah Al Naimi, Director of Investment Management, Qatar Fund for Development
- Kingsley Lenkokile, Mission Director, SustainaBridge
- Linda Mabhena-Olagunju, Founder & CEO, DLO Energy Resources Group
- Dr. Chantal Naidoo, Founder and Executive Director, Rabia Transitions and Non Executive Director, DBSA
Discussions surfaced practical pathways to support energy sovereignty, resilient economies and inclusive growth across the continent.
Dr. Mwagiru provided an overview presentation on a Special Report on the African Union Renewable Energy-Led Industrialisation Ecosystem. The forthcoming publication features research conducted by SAIIA in partnership with the African Union Energy Commission (AFREC) and the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), including a draft Strategic Framework for Green Industrialisation. It underscores the need for policy harmonisation, investment mobilisation, development of local value chains and institutionalisation of anticipatory governance reforms to advance energy transitions across the continent.
Working alongside regional partners such as SAIIA, Doha Forum reinforces its role as a global convenor that brings regional insight into international policymaking. Insights from the Johannesburg event contribute to a broader global conversation – one that will continue at the 23rd Doha Forum, taking place 6-7 December under the theme “Justice in Action: Beyond Promises to Progress.”
