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GECF Expert Commentary- Energy Access and Development in Africa: Strategic Role of Natural Gas

26 August 2025 |

Despite a threefold increase in Africa’s primary energy demand since 1982, per capita energy consumption has remained stagnant as rapid population growth outpaced supply. This has created a widening structural imbalance between available energy and societal needs. Today, Africa’s average per capita energy consumption is only one-third of the global average, underscoring the continent’s persistent energy access deficit and the deepening divergence in global energy equity. Yet, Africa’s abundant natural gas presents a unique opportunity emerging as a strategic resource capable of balancing immediate development imperatives with long-term sustainability goals. The pressing question is: How can Africa strategically harness its natural gas resources to bridge the energy access gap and advance sustainable development?

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