DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister for Energy Dr Doto Biteko has urged African countries to harness the potential of green hydrogen to power the continent's future, drive sustainable development and lead global energy transition.

Dr Biteko made the call at the weekend when addressing Global African Hydrogen Summit in Windhoek, Namibia. The summit was held under the theme: ‘From Ambition to Action: Fueling Africa's Green Industrial Revolution’.

"African countries are confronted with the need for increased energy access in meeting their development aspirations and transition to green energy," he said. 

"Looking at the stumpy electrification rates in countries such as Tanzania which stands at less than 70 percent, we need to increase generation capacity using our available resources that include hydro, natural gas, and renewables such as solar, small hydro, wind and geothermal." 

Biteko said Africa, with its abundant natural resources, youthful population and emerging markets, is uniquely positioned to become a leader in the global green energy revolution.

"Yet, we also face significant challenges that require innovative solutions, collaborative efforts and visionary leadership," he said.

Biteko said advocating for cleaner fuel should be a priority for all African governments to achieve a low-carbon economy.

He also said investing in green hydrogen is costly and involves many challenges that call for enormous attention in financing, infrastructure development, market creation and demand stimulation.

"The global energy landscape is changing rapidly and Africa cannot afford to be left behind. We must seize the opportunities presented by green hydrogen to build a sustainable, prosperous and resilient future for our continent," he said.