by Kgaugelo Jessica Selane
The Energy Forum for Africa conference held from 14-16 August 2024 in Lusaka, Zambia, saw significant contributions from Professor Olawale Popoola, the DSI-NRF Chair: Energy Solutions for Inclusive and Sustainable Societies (ESISS) at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT). He was invited to deliver a keynote address on the theme "How ‘Other’ African Countries Are Navigating Challenges of Energy Deficit (Accessibility)".
Prof Olawale Popoola with His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia.
During his keynote address on the first day of the conference, Prof Popoola tackled pressing issues surrounding energy access across Africa, emphasising its importance as a "key component" in driving an enabling environment for the fourth and fifth Industrial Revolutions. He further delved into the continent’s energy supply sources, consumption patterns and investment opportunities, while shedding light on Africa’s enduring energy challenges.
“Energy access for all is not just a goal, it is a necessity for Africa's advancement in the global arena,” said Prof Popoola. “We must address these gaps with sustainable solutions that prioritise inclusivity, as they are fundamental to unlocking the full potential of our people and economies.”
Prof Popoola’s address also explored the various strategies African countries are employing to mitigate energy deficits, offering insights into Zambia’s current energy status and suggesting practical measures to improve energy accessibility. His presentation called for a significant demand for further discussion among participants, serving as a testament to the relevance and urgency of the issues raised.
Reflecting on his experience at the forum, Prof Popoola expressed both humility and excitement. “It was a humbling, highly awakening and exhilarating experience for me. Growing up, my everyday desire was just to read about African leaders like Kenneth Kaunda, Julius Nyerere, and Nelson Mandela. Africa was inborn in me,” he shared.
The forum provided Prof Popoola with the opportunity to engage with key figures, including Mr Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia.
“I was privileged to meet and speak with President Hichilema and accompany him during his visit to the various exhibition stands. It was an honour to see the importance Zambia places on honouring God in their events,” he also added.
The significance of Prof Popoola’s participation in the forum was praised by the Minister of Energy of Zambia, who introduced him to the President. “Prof Popoola’s insights into Africa’s energy challenges and potential solutions were a highlight of the forum,” noted the Minister. “His contributions are invaluable as we work towards sustainable energy solutions for our continent.”
Expressing gratitude, he said, “I am deeply thankful to God Almighty, the organisers of the conference, the people of Zambia and my colleagues at the DSI-NRF in South Africa and TUT’s Centre for Energy and Power for providing me with this platform. Africa is great and Africa will be great.”