ABU DHABI (WAM)
Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, participated in a high-level plenary session during the 14th meeting of the IRENA Assembly in Abu Dhabi to discuss accelerated renewable energy deployment in Africa. The event was attended by Dr Jimmy Gasore, the Minister of Infrastructure for Rwanda, Davis Chirchir, the Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum of Kenya, and Francesco La Camera, Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
The 14th session was convened under the theme ‘Outcome of COP28: Infrastructure, Policies and Skills for Tripling Renewables and Accelerating the Energy Transition’, following the successful international commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency. This commitment was led by the European Union and the presidency of the UAE, which received support from over 120 countries and emerged as one of the key achievements pledged by all parties at COP28.
During his speech, Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan highlighted the UAE’s endeavours to accelerate renewable energy deployment in Africa. He emphasised the importance of collaborations among the international community to meet the continent's needs.
He said, “The robust relationship between the UAE and Africa is reflected in our partnerships and development projects. Today, the UAE is deeply invested in the prosperity and well-being of the entire African continent. The UAE is investing in critical infrastructure projects, leveraging existing relationships in Africa, including diplomatic, humanitarian, and development cooperation, to share the UAE’s renewable energy expertise to advance economic and human development.”
He underscored the important role of the UAE as an active member of the international community, emphasising the responsibility that accompanies such opportunities and reiterated the UAE’s commitment to delivering tangible outcomes that address the growing threat of climate change. He called on the international community to collaborate, strengthen investment in key sectors, exchange expertise and technology to unlock Africa’s vast renewable energy potential and propel sustainable development forward.