Kigali to host East Africa forum on sustainable energy

The capital of Rwanda, Kigali, has been chosen to host the sustainable energy forum for East Africa from March 19 to 21.

According to a statement from the EAC secretariat, the forum aims to foster economic transformation of the EAC Partner States through equitable access to sustainable energy for all.

"Energy is essential in the running of daily domestic activities and operation of industry. Availability of sufficient, reliable and affordable energy is crucial for the functioning of the economies of the EAC partner States. As a service and productive sector, energy plays a catalytic role in stimulating investments and higher levels of productivity," reads part of the statement.

The Forum will provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss strategies on the harmonisation of renewable energy and efficient energy policies, upscaling financing in technologies, as well as exchange knowledge, experiences and inform about ongoing and planned regional programmes.

In addition, the forum seeks to strengthen the regional network and provide a platform for knowledge and experience sharing.

It will bring together policy makers, experts, civil society and private sector representatives and development partners to share best practices, identify opportunities and challenges, and find solutions to the energy challenges in East Africa.

These include EAC Secretary General Amb. Libérat Mfumukeko; Sustainable Energy for All CEO, Rachel Kyte; UNIDO Director of Energy, Tareq Emtairah; Austrian Development Agency Managing Director, Martin Ledolter; International Solar Alliance (ISA) Director General, Upendra Tripathi; and International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Deputy Director General, Sakari Oksanen among others.