Dares salam (hornpost.com/) The President of the Republic, His Excellency Ismail Omar Guelleh, returned to the country on Tuesday evening, after participating in the African Energy Summit, which was held on January 27 and 28 in Dares Salaam, Tanzania.
The event, organized by the African Union with support from international partners such as the World Bank and the African Development Bank, served as a strategic platform to discuss the continent’s energy future.
At the summit, President Guelleh delivered a landmark speech in which he reaffirmed Djibouti's commitment to a sustainable and equitable energy transition. He stressed that 85% of the country's energy needs are covered by renewable sources, thanks to projects such as the Goubet wind farm, hydro-electric imports from Ethiopia, and the upcoming inauguration of a solar plant in Grand Bara. These initiatives illustrate Djibouti's willingness to become a model for clean energy in Africa.
The Head of State also denounced the lack of realization of international financial commitments to support African countries in their energy transition efforts. “Our states owe themselves significantly to implement resilient energy strategies, while the financial support promised remains largely theoretical,” he said. He called for a new international economic order, which takes into account the specific needs and strategic challenges of African nations.
The summit adopted an ambitious final statement, focusing on:
Reducing CO2 emissions;
Preserving natural ecosystems;
Massive promotion of clean energy;
Strengthening regional energy infrastructures to reduce the energy fracture;
and the creation of millions of jobs in the renewable energy sector.
Djibouti’s candidacy for presidency of the African Union Commission
On the sidelines of the summit, President Guelleh held bilateral meetings with several of his African counterparts, including the Presidents of Somalia, Comoros and Zambia, to strengthen bilateral relations and discuss regional issues. He also took advantage of these interviews to promote Djibouti’s candidacy for presidency of the African Union Commission, highlighting the competencies of his candidate, Mr. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf
The President’s return marks the end of a trip in which Djibouti has established itself as a key player in Africa’s energy transition. This commitment is a testament to the strategic vision of the Head of State, which puts clean energy at the heart of national and continental development.
Under his leadership, Djibouti continues to position itself at the forefront of Africa’s efforts to address climate challenges and promote sustainable energy, both for its citizens and for Africa’s future.
Hornpost staff Reporter
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