John Jinapor addressing participants at the meeting in India
The 8th Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly has opened in New Delhi, India, bringing together global leaders, policymakers and renewable energy experts to advance cooperation on clean energy development.
Representing the continent in his capacity as Vice President of the ISA Africa Region, John Jinpaor, Ghana’s Minister of Energy and Green Transition, participated in the opening session and delivered Africa’s regional report to the Assembly.
In his address, he underscored one of the most compelling realities highlighted during the deliberations — that Africa possesses nearly 60% of the world’s best solar resources, yet attracts only about 2% of global clean energy investment.
“This imbalance must change,” he emphasised.
“Africa’s renewable energy potential is immense but it remains largely untapped.”
He further noted that an estimated 600 million people across Africa still live without access to electricity, with the situation being even more severe in rural areas, where nearly 75% of the population remains off the grid.
Calling for urgent action, he urged member states and development partners to strengthen partnerships, expand innovative financing mechanisms, and accelerate the deployment of solar technologies across the continent.
“We must work together to unlock Africa’s solar potential and ensure universal energy access for all,” he said.
“A just and inclusive energy transition is not only possible — it is essential for our shared future.”
The ISA Assembly continues with discussions on scaling up investments, enhancing regional collaboration, and promoting policy innovations that support sustainable energy access globally.
