US Energy Secretary Calls Energy Central to Africa's Development
US Energy Secretary Charles Wright stated energy must be Africa's central economic policy pillar at the 2026 Powering Africa Summit. He emphasized expanding energy access could unlock industrial growth, jobs, and improved living standards, particularly through clean cooking solutions that reduce health risks and free women's time. Wright criticized Western governments' "paternalistic" approach, arguing Africa's energy strategy should prioritize human development over symbolic climate contributions. He noted Western nations spent over $10 trillion on renewables but still only meet a fraction of energy needs. IFC's Makhtar Diop added private capital mobilization requires policy stability and profitable projects, with public sector focusing on creating investment conditions rather than direct funding.