Ruto Urges Africa to Drive Green Industrial Growth

President William Ruto urged African nations to capitalize on global shifts in climate investment, positioning Africa as a leading hub for green industrialization. He highlighted the continent’s abundant renewable resources as ideal for climate adaptation and clean energy investments.

The call came during a meeting chaired by President Ruto, on the sidelines of the 39th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The Committee of the African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC) meeting included representatives from Tanzania, Uganda, Seychelles, Algeria, the African Union Commission, and development partners.

Renewable Energy Investment

Global investment in energy transition reached approximately $2.3 trillion (KSh299 trillion) in 2025, reflecting a continued shift towards low-carbon energy systems and technologies. President Ruto stated that reliable and affordable power is becoming a key factor in economic competitiveness as the global economy moves towards lower-carbon production, electrified value chains, and technology-intensive industries.

Green Industrialization and Economic Growth

President Ruto emphasized that green industrialization is a strategic alignment that can strengthen African economies and create sustainable employment opportunities for the continent’s young population. He referenced the Nairobi Declaration from the inaugural Africa Climate Summit in 2023, which he said sets a clear direction for climate-positive growth. He added that Africa must prioritize climate considerations in economic planning and investment decisions.

Initiatives and Funding

The Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa and the Africa Green Industrialisation Initiative were commended as practical tools for achieving the continent’s climate goals, supported by the African Continental Free Trade Area. The Africa Green Industrialisation Initiative secured commitments of $100 billion (KSh13 trillion) from African financial institutions at the second Africa Climate Summit.

Support from Tanzania

President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania affirmed her country’s support for continental climate action and expressed interest in pursuing opportunities in green industrialization, particularly in value addition. She underscored the importance of concerted efforts from member states for the collective success of Africa’s climate initiatives and emphasized the need for political commitment to translate into tangible benefits for citizens.

African Union Commission’s Commitment

African Union Commission Chair Mahamoud Ali Youssouf confirmed that climate action remains a priority for the commission. He stated that robust measures are in place to achieve the continent’s climate action goals and called on Member States to support efforts aimed at reversing the effects of climate change.