UN 
As temperatures soar across Lagos and Nairobi this July, the continent’s electrification efforts are reaching a pivotal moment. With over 570 million Africans still lacking reliable electricity access according to the African Development Bank, the race to expand grid infrastructure is intensifying. Recent announcements from the African Union Commission highlight a new target: connect at least 100 million additional people to electricity by the end of 2026, signaling a bold push towards SDG 7—affordable and clean energy.
Yet, on-the-ground progress varies widely. In Senegal, the state utility Senelec reported this week that rural grid extension projects completed in June have brought power to 75,000 new households. Meanwhile, in Ethiopia, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam has begun supplying power to several industrial zones, but local NGOs warn that off-grid communities remain underserved, especially in remote regions.
Financing remains a persistent bottleneck. The World Bank’s commitment of $2.3 billion for African electrification projects this season is substantial, but utility leaders gathered in Abidjan on Wednesday voiced concerns about slow disbursement and the risk of stranded assets if transmission upgrades lag behind.
Greenwashing claims are also surfacing. On Monday, activists in Accra challenged a multinational solar developer over inflated electrification figures tied to corporate sustainability reporting. SDG Talking’s review of project data found discrepancies between pledged megawatts and actual household connections delivered in Ghana’s Northern Region.
With less than 42% of sub-Saharan Africa electrified as of this summer, the gap between ambition and delivery remains wide. As the continent’s leaders prepare for the African Union’s energy summit in Addis Ababa later this month, the spotlight is firmly on transparent reporting, resilient infrastructure, and the need for cross-border cooperation to meet the 2026 targets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Africans lack reliable electricity access as of July 2024?
Over 570 million Africans lack reliable electricity access as of July 2024.
What is the African Union’s new electrification target?
The African Union aims to connect 100 million more people to electricity by the end of 2026.
How much has the World Bank committed to African electrification projects this season?
The World Bank has committed $2.3 billion to African electrification projects this season.
What percentage of sub-Saharan Africa is electrified as of summer 2024?
Less than 42% of sub-Saharan Africa is electrified as of this summer.
What recent progress has Senegal made in rural electrification?
Senegal’s Senelec connected 75,000 new rural households to the grid in June 2024.
