Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio has expressed gratitude for the launch of the new Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa (APRA). He emphasized the importance of Africa finding a sustainable balance between its abundant natural resources and a future driven by clean and renewable energy sources as the world shifts away from fossil fuels.
President Bio stressed the need for Africa to have unrestricted access to climate financing in order to transition toward environmentally friendly, green growth. He emphasized that achieving a sustainable future should be based on equitable and just collaborations and partnerships.
"The APRA initiative resonates with our shared goals of taking significant steps to transform our energy sectors and lead the revolution towards a green economy. It reflects our strong commitment to fostering climate-positive growth, harnessing our vast natural resources, including critical minerals, and our youthful population to drive industrialization."
He also highlighted Africa's role as a crucial supplier of critical minerals required for accelerating global emission reductions. Sierra Leone envisions the production of batteries, solar panels, wind turbines, and other green technologies within manufacturing facilities located on the continent.
"We are confident that, with the support of our partners in the APRA initiative, we will achieve our national ambitions and the continental vision of creating a unified African energy market by 2063."
Sierra Leone wholeheartedly endorses the APRA initiative and welcomes strategic partnerships aimed at tapping into its untapped renewable energy potential. The goal is to significantly increase the proportion of renewable energy in the national energy mix by 2030 and expand access to mini-grid and stand-alone solar home systems for off-grid populations.