The ECOWAS Parliament has adopted a report with key resolutions and recommendations to accelerate renewable energy initiatives, aiming to address West Africa’s energy crisis and promote rural development.
The decision was made by the Joint Committee on Energy and Mines, Infrastructure, and Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources at the end of a week-long meeting in Dakar, Senegal.
The event was themed: “Harnessing Renewable Energy for Rural Electrification and Revitalising Rural Economies in the ECOWAS Region: The Role of the ECOWAS Parliament.”
The report, adopted unanimously, includes strategies to improve access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy in rural communities. It supports deploying decentralised energy sources like mini-grids and off-grid systems, harmonising regulations, strengthening innovative financing, and increasing parliamentary oversight.
Lawmakers also emphasized promoting quality renewable equipment, expanding access to electricity financing, training youth, and incorporating gender considerations to ensure women benefit fully.
Additional focus was placed on strengthening regional coordination, supporting the ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE), and improving consultation with parliament for project implementation and monitoring.
The parliament also agreed on immediate action to address financial challenges facing the West African Power Pool (WAPP), a key initiative for regional electrification.
Members assured continued support for energy projects involving the Alliance of Sahel States, aligned with existing commitments.
MP Fanta Conte, Chair of the Joint Committee, stated that rural electrification could drive economic transformation, job creation, and empower women and youth.
“The recommendations from Dakar provide a roadmap for accelerating the energy transition and achieving universal electricity access in West Africa,” she said.
She urged lawmakers to use their legislative, oversight, and advocacy roles to support regional energy policies and mobilise investments in renewables.
According to her, West Africa’s rural economies depend on harnessing renewable resources for sustainable development and regional integration.
Parliamentarians committed to working collaboratively toward the ECOWAS Vision 2050, which aims for universal electricity access across the region, especially in rural areas.
