Mbabane – Southern African countries have been called upon to turn discussions on sustainable energy into practical action as the region grapples with electricity shortages, ageing infrastructure and the growing effects of climate change.
Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, His Royal Highness Prince Lonkhokhela, made the call on Wednesday while officially launching the 2027 SADC Sustainable Energy Week at Happy Valley, where government officials, development partners, academics, private sector representatives and energy experts gathered for the event.
Prince Lonkhokhela said the launch was more than the start of a regional programme, describing it as an opportunity for Southern African countries to work together towards a sustainable, resilient and inclusive energy future driven by innovation.
He said the region continued to experience electricity shortages, ageing infrastructure and increasing climate vulnerability, but added that these challenges also presented opportunities to expand investment in renewable energy, improve regional electricity interconnections and attract climate finance.
“The discussions we are having must translate into concrete action,” he said.
The minister said governments, development partners and investors should focus on expanding renewable energy generation, improving access to clean cooking technologies, promoting energy efficiency and creating more opportunities for women and young people in the energy sector.
He said access to sustainable energy remained critical to economic growth, climate resilience and job creation across the region.
Prince Lonkhokhela said cooperation among SADC member states would be essential in building reliable energy systems capable of meeting growing demand while reducing dependence on traditional energy sources.
He concluded by calling on stakeholders to work together in building a cleaner and more secure energy future for Southern Africa.
“Let history record that when our region faced the challenge of transforming its energy future, we chose partnership over isolation, innovation over complacency, and action over aspiration,” he said before officially declaring the 2027 SADC Sustainable Energy Week launched.
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