EPRA pushes for regional cooperation to boost Africa’s energy security, attract investment

The Authority states that such cooperation is crucial to positioning Africa as a competitive investment destination by ensuring affordable, stable, and reliable power systems.

Speaking during the 7th Annual EPRA Research and Innovation Conference 2026 in Nairobi, Acting Director General Dr Eng. Joseph Oketch said Africa’s energy future must be anchored in robust regional systems capable of withstanding supply disruptions, price volatility, and the shifting demands of the global energy transition.

“The challenges we are facing now are a good opportunity to collaborate across sectors and the region to collectively address vulnerabilities in our energy supply chains while building systems that are flexible, integrated, and informed by credible research,” he said.

Themed “Advancing Energy Affordability and Security in Sustainable Development,” this year’s conference brings together researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, private sector actors, and development partners from across the continent. The week-long forum is exploring innovative approaches to balancing rising energy demand with the need for affordability, reliability, and long-term sustainability.

Dr Oketch’s remarks come against the backdrop of growing momentum toward a fully integrated Eastern African electricity market, which is expected to enable cross-border power trade at competitive prices while improving efficiency and affordability across the region.

EPRA noted that achieving this goal will require harmonised regulatory frameworks, aligned energy policies, and coordinated market structures that allow countries to operate seamlessly rather than in isolation.

The Authority further observed that strengthening regional energy markets, standardising pricing mechanisms, and introducing targeted policy incentives would be critical in attracting investment, improving system efficiency, and expanding access to affordable energy at scale.

EPRA also highlighted continental initiatives such as the M300 Initiative, which aims to connect 300 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa to electricity, describing it as a strong example of the transformative potential of coordinated regional action.