South Africa is transitioning from coal-fired electricity, which currently accounts for 74% of its power, to renewable sources like wind and solar. This shift is complicated and is being hindered by the need for a different electricity system and new grid management strategies. Additionally, significant changes are required at Eskom, the state-owned utility that has historically dominated the power sector.

A global report released by the WHO and partners indicates that over 655 million people worldwide lack access to electricity, while nearly two billion depend on polluting fuels for cooking. This situation poses significant health risks and exacerbates existing inequalities, highlighting a potential global energy and health crisis.

Africa's reliance on imported fuel is particularly pronounced in the transport sector, where road transport consumes about 80 percent of the continent's imported fuel. This dependence significantly impacts the economy, as transport costs can account for up to 45 percent of the final retail price of staple foods, highlighting both a challenge and an opportunity for energy solutions in the region.

A report indicates that while Africa has seen growth in hydropower generation, Nigeria continues to face significant challenges with chronic power shortages, frequent grid failures, and a substantial electricity access deficit, despite having considerable hydropower resources.

The World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have successfully connected over 50 million people to electricity through their Mission 300 initiative, which spans 40 African countries. This effort aims to accelerate electricity access across the continent.

As global temperatures rise, surface water sources in Africa are becoming increasingly erratic, leading to concerns about water availability. Approximately 400 million people in Africa lack access to basic drinking water services. However, scientists are focusing on mapping and monitoring the continent's groundwater, which is estimated to be 0.66 million cubic kilometers, significantly more than the freshwater in all of Africa's lakes combined, to prepare for future climate challenges.