Pre-Tana Forum 2024 Multi-Stakeholders Dialogue

The global energy landscape has undergone a paradigm shift, shaped by unprecedented disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ukraine-Russia conflict, and increased volatile oil and gas prices. These challenges, interwoven with the escalating climate crisis, have increased tensions in global energy markets and challenged the three imperatives of the energy triangle: economic development and growth, energy security and access, and environmental sustainability. This complex interplay presents unique challenges for Africa, a continent rich in resources yet often plagued by energy insecurity and vulnerability to climate impacts. Therefore, the traditional definition of "energy security" as simply the "uninterrupted availability of energy at affordable prices" no longer captures this multifaceted reality. Today, energy security in Africa needs to encompass broader environmental, social, development and geopolitical dimensions as well.

One inherent feature of energy security is the politicization of energy resources, particularly gas and oil, which has exacerbated the turmoil in global energy markets in recent years. While Africa boasts vast oil and gas reserves, countries within the continent aiming to leverage them for economic development face a complex landscape. Dependence on external investments and infrastructure creates vulnerabilities to external pressures. Therefore, the continent needs to navigate a delicate balance between attracting investments while asserting its own development priorities and avoiding undue influence. Furthermore, disruptions in existing energy pipelines or deliberate price manipulation can have devastating consequences for African economies. Witnessing the impact of the Ukraine-Russia conflict on global energy markets serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability to external disruptions.

The global pursuit of decarbonization adds another layer of complexity. Failure to address climate change, a challenge disproportionately impacting Africa, risks exacerbating existing conflicts and creating new security threats. Yet, transitioning from fossil fuels to cleaner energy requires significant investment, meticulous planning, and ensuring a "just transition" that protects livelihoods. Furthermore, critical minerals, which are essential to the energy transition, raise new risks in terms of global interdependences and extractive practices. But at the same time, this shift also presents the continent with opportunities for cooperation in financing, knowledge, and expertise and for sustainable development.

As African nations continue to adjust their energy security priorities in the face of growing uncertainties, the path forward is not straightforward. Given the diversity of the economic and social landscapes of African countries and the multitude of challenges they face, it is imperative that the energy transition strategies they adopt are adapted to these complexities. These strategies should enable them to proactively address their energy security needs and effectively navigate their transition to sustainability. This requires promoting regional energy cooperation, expanding clean energy options and collaborative partnerships, and significant investments in renewable energy and the interconnectivity of sustainable infrastructure.

The 2024 Pre-Tana Forum, which will be organized jointly by the Policy Center for the New South (PCNS), the Tana Forum Secretariat and the Institute for Peace and Security Studies (IPSS) on March 7 & 8, 2024, aims to chart a course towards a secure and sustainable energy future for Africa, ensuring the continent thrives amidst evolving global challenges.

Simultaneous translation from English to French and vice versa will be provided during the event.