The 9th West African Sustainable Energy Forum (ESEF) commenced on November 28, 2024, in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, focusing on the region's energy transition. Organized by the ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (CEREEC), the forum aims to address energy challenges in West Africa under the theme 'Towards a Just Energy Transition in West Africa.'
During the opening remarks, the Minister of Mines, Petroleum, and Energy, Sangafowa Mamadou, emphasized the need for adequate financing to achieve energy sector expectations. He highlighted the importance of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Facility (EREEEF) initiated by ECOWAS to support this transition.
Jean Francis Semporé, Executive Director of CEREEC, reflected on the achievements of the agency over its 14 years, noting its role in establishing a global network of sustainable energy centers and promoting renewable energy policies in West Africa.
Sédiko Douka, ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy, Mines, Water, Digitalization, and Postal Services, discussed the Atlantic African Gas Pipeline project, which will extend from Nigeria through 11 coastal ECOWAS countries to Morocco. This 6,800 km pipeline, with an estimated cost of $25 billion, aims to supply gas for energy production and industrial use in 16 countries, with potential exports to Europe.