African Development Bank champions a scale-up of Renewable Energy Access for Sustainable Agriculture Development in Africa

The African Development Bank Group hosted a side event at COP29 focused on renewable energy solutions for smallholder farmers and in particular the overlap of energy, water, and food security to spur sustainable development in Africa.

Held at the Africa Pavilion, the high-profile event brought together key stakeholders to discuss how solar energy can bolster Africa’s agricultural productivity. Notable speakers included Tunisia’s Environment Minister Habib Abid, Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Francesco La Camera, and Emmanuel Kouassi Kouadio, Climate Resilience Programs Lead at Climate Investment Funds.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Martin Fregene, Director of Agriculture and Agro-Industries at the African Development Bank, underscored the institution’s significant efforts to transform agriculture in Africa.

“The Bank has, over the last decade, invested a billion dollars in regional and national programs aimed at increasing food production, particularly in lowlands irrigated field production. Through our flagship initiatives like “Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation” and “Desert to Power,” we are harnessing Africa’s abundant sunshine, inland valleys, lands, and water resources to ensure Africa no longer has to buy food when it can feed itself,” Dr. Fregene stated.

Tunisia’s Environment Minister Abid stressed the need for collective action. “Sustainable agriculture is not achievable without partnerships that align energy, water, and agricultural policies. We need collective action to ensure that renewable energy solutions reach every corner of the continent,” he said.

Echoing this sentiment, IRENA Director-General La Camera highlighted the urgency of the energy transition. “Transitioning to renewable energy is not a choice - it is a necessity. By mobilizing resources and aligning policies, we can empower Africa’s farmers with the tools they need to thrive.”

The event featured expert panel discussions exploring practical strategies such as integrating solar-powered irrigation systems, extending off-grid energy access to rural communities, policy alignment mechanisms, and introducing innovative financing solutions.

Dr Laouali Garba, Manager of Agricultural Research, Production and Sustainability at the African Development Bank, stressed the importance of collaboration to ensure resilient, sustainable food systems.

“Food security is our top priority. Africa has the potential to feed itself, but only if we provide access to water, energy, and technology. Without these critical resources, progress is impossible,” he said, noting that the session provided a critical platform to address the interdependence of these resources.

The session showcased the African Development Bank’s flagship programs like Desert to Power and Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation, which are driving renewable energy adoption and agricultural transformation across Africa.

Cover photo: Group photo of lead participants (L-R): Emmanuel Kouassi Kouadio, Climate Resilience Programs Lead at Climate Investment Funds; Dr. Laouali Garba, Manager of Agricultural Research, Production and Sustainability at AfDB; Mohammed Ouhmed, Director, Energy Transition Department, Morocco; Dr. Vidhisha Samarasekara, Director, Water-Climate Change and Resilience, International Water Management Institute; Hajar Chmanti Houri Head of Donor Services, Agricultural Development Agency, Morocco; Carlos Guerrero Lucendo, Senior Researcher, Vito; Jakub Vrba, Senior Research Lead, Energy Saving Trust; and Dr. Martin Fregene, Director for Agriculture and Agro-Industries, AfDB.