#fossil fuels

A study tracking 3,139 power plants in Africa reveals that fossil fuels continue to dominate the continent's electricity generation, with only about 57% of the population having access to electricity, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa. To achieve the United Nations goal of universal access to affordable electricity by 2030, rapid expansion of electricity generation is necessary. However, this expansion poses challenges related to water resources and climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions from power plants, particularly coal-fired ones.

At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, Tanzania, led by James L. Laizer, chaired the African Group and advocated for a careful strategy regarding the phase-out of fossil fuels among African nations. The call for bold action highlights Tanzania's commitment to balancing tourism and environmental conservation while addressing energy needs.