Africa Energy Expo Summit 2024 Showcased Investment Opportunities and Industry Innovations

Rwanda hosted the Africa Energy Expo Summit 2024 from November 4-6, gathering major energy stakeholders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to discuss and promote sustainable energy solutions across the continent.

Held at the Kigali Convention Centre, the summit aimed to bolster electricity access and promote collaboration for achieving Africa’s energy goals, aligning with Rwanda’s ambitious target of universal electricity access by 2030.

At the opening of the summit, Olivier Kabera, State Minister in the Ministry of Infrastructure, emphasized the event’s significance for Rwanda’s energy sector.

“Hosting this African exhibition is a unique opportunity for Rwanda to attract investors and learn from energy developments worldwide,” Kabera stated. He highlighted that the summit aligns with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), which seeks to expand electricity access significantly over the next five years.

Kabera added, “We are fortunate to bring together minds and expertise in energy, which will help us share knowledge and ideas on improving access to sustainable power. This collaboration supports our government’s target to reach universal electricity coverage by 2030, with 60% sourced from renewables such as solar and hydropower.”

Among the notable exhibitors was Giza Rwanda, a subsidiary of Giza Cable Industries, which has become a leading manufacturer in Rwanda’s energy sector.

Established in Kigali in 2020, Giza Rwanda has rapidly expanded its footprint, supplying high-quality cables and electrical materials across East Africa. In an exclusive interview, Mohamed Gamal, Giza Rwanda’s Sales Manager, highlighted the company’s dedication to Rwanda’s economic growth and the broader regional energy sector.

“Our Kigali factory produces and supplies a wide range of cables that are essential for power distribution infrastructure across the region,” Gamal shared. “We’re proud to be part of Rwanda’s growth story and support the development of sustainable energy solutions for the continent.”

He noted Rwanda’s favorable investment environment as a crucial factor for Giza’s success, adding, “The partnership between Rwanda and businesses here is strong, and I believe this collaboration will be mutually beneficial.”

Other companies were also keen to leverage the summit for growth and partnerships.

Uwase Karire, representing AEROSPIN, an international energy company, emphasized their interest in expanding within Africa. “Though we’re not based in Rwanda, this event offers an incredible platform to showcase our products and connect with potential investors,” Karire said.

She highlighted the importance of AEROSPIN’s hand-powered devices, which enhance safety in electrical installations by reducing the need for workers to climb poles, thus preventing falls and infrastructure damage.

The CEO of Giza Cable reiterated the importance of the summit in reaching new clients and expanding product awareness.

“Our products are strong, affordable, and reliable compared to others in the market,” he stated. “This conference allows us to network, display our products, and further our goal of enhancing electricity access for more people in Rwanda and beyond.”

The summit’s focus on safety and innovation in the energy sector was underlined by Karire’s explanation of AEROSPIN’s technology, which makes electrical work safer by reducing the risk of accidents and infrastructure damage.

“Our devices operate without workers needing to climb poles, preventing falls, fires, and the deterioration of energy infrastructure,” she added.

Recent statistics from the Rwanda Energy Group (REG) reveal that 77.7% of households in Rwanda now have access to electricity, a significant increase from 34% in 2017. The Ministry of Infrastructure aims to raise this figure to 100% by 2030, with a commitment to derive at least 60% from renewable sources.