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2025 sustainable grant opportunities

Africa
Finance

March 18, 2025

Several grant opportunities are now open for applications, offering funding, technical support, and investment facilitation for sustainability initiatives. Here is a roundup of key grants and their eligibility criteria.

1. EEP Africa

Eligibility: Companies promoting clean energy in Southern or Eastern Africa

Funding Focus: Risk-tolerant early-stage grant financing for locally driven clean energy projects, technologies, and business models. Projects receive technical support, investment facilitation, and knowledge-sharing opportunities.

Application link: https://eepafrica.org/financing/2025-call-for-proposals

Deadline: 21 March 2025, 2 p.m.

2. Seeds of Sustainability Fund Program (Ceiba Foundation for Tropical Conservation)

Eligibility: Non-profits, community groups, small businesses, and individuals from developing tropical countries

Priority Areas:
-Habitat and species conservation (land and marine)
-Restoration and habitat connectivity
-Agricultural improvements for sustainability
-Environmental enterprises led by marginalized groups
-Environmental education and training

Deadline: 18 April 2025

Apply: https://ceiba.org/partners/application/

3. Greentech Africa 2025: The Future of Sustainability – Accelerator Program

Eligibility: Startups in Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa focused on sustainability solutions

Focus Areas:
-Agtech and food security
-Biodiversity protection
-Circular and regenerative economy
-Cleantech
-Climate innovation and adaptation

The program offers mentorship, resources, and strategic support to 10-15 selected startups.

Apply: https://vilcap.com/programs/greentech-africa-2025

Deadline: 9 May 2025

4. AU-EU Collaborative Research & Innovation Projects on Sustainable Energy (LEAP-SE)

Eligibility: Consortia with at least two entities from the EU and two from the African Union, including research institutions and commercial companies

Funding: €10 million (with an additional €3.5 million from the European Commission)

Focus Areas:
-Renewable energy assessment and integration
-Smart grids for off-grid applications
-Clean cooking and cold chain solutions
-Green hydrogen production and utilization

Deadline for Pre-Proposal Submission: 27 March 2025

Full Proposal Deadline: 11 September 2025

5. Youth4Climate Grants

Y4C’s Call for Solutions is a global innovation challenge for Youth and Youth-led organizations working on climate action focused projects. The Call aims to fund new and existing youth-led solutions that are ready to implement or scale, and to support the further development of young people’s ideas and projects by providing relevant learning opportunities with the support of partners.

Eligibility: Youth-led organizations (aged 18-29) working on climate solutions

Funding: Up to USD $30,000

Deadline: 26 May 2025

Apply:https://community.youth4climate.info/dashboard/call-solutions-2025

Seize These Opportunities. These grants and accelerator programs provide crucial financial and strategic support to drive impactful sustainability projects. If your initiative aligns with any of these programs, don’t miss the chance to apply and scale your solutions.

Eritrea to set up the Desert to Power Initiative with three major mini-grid projects

Economic Responsibility

External Source

March 18, 2025

Eritrea to set up the Desert to Power Initiative with three major mini-grid projects

The Sahel region, long known for its arid climate and harsh living conditions, is set to become a beacon of renewable energy transformation through the Desert to Power (DtP) initiative. Spearheaded by the African Development Bank (AfDB), this ambitious project aims to turn the vast desert landscape into a renewable energy powerhouse, with a goal of generating 10 gigawatts (GW) of solar power by 2030. As part of this initiative, Eritrea is taking significant strides to boost its energy sector by rolling out three major mini-grid projects that will enhance electricity access for thousands of people.

Like many African nations, Eritrea has long struggled with inadequate electricity infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. While urban centers have relatively better access, the national electrification rate remains low—just 53%, with rural communities seeing an access rate as low as 10%. The country’s energy supply is largely dependent on expensive and polluting diesel generators, making it both financially and environmentally unsustainable.

With electricity being a key driver of economic development, the lack of reliable power in Eritrea has hindered progress in crucial sectors such as healthcare, education, and industry. Recognizing the urgent need for transformation, the government has aligned itself with the Desert to Power framework to deploy sustainable energy solutions.

The Desert to Power initiative is a game-changer for Africa’s renewable energy landscape. Designed to capitalize on the continent’s vast solar potential, it focuses on five key pillars:

Expanding grid-connected solar power capacity
Strengthening national and regional grid infrastructure
Deploying decentralized energy solutions such as mini-grids
Enhancing the financial and operational capabilities of power utilities
Creating an enabling environment for private sector investment in renewable energy

By tapping into these pillars, the initiative seeks to provide electricity to 250 million people across 11 countries, including Eritrea, transforming energy accessibility and fostering sustainable economic growth.

Eritrea has already taken significant steps toward a clean energy future. In 2023, the country secured a $49.92 million grant from the African Development Fund to develop the 30 MW Dekemhare solar power plant. Once operational, this project is expected to increase the share of renewable energy in Eritrea’s national grid from 3% to 23%, significantly reducing the country’s reliance on fossil fuels.

Building on this momentum, Eritrea is now launching three new solar mini-grid projects under the DtP framework, targeting the regions of Tesseney, Kerkebet, and Barentu. These mini-grids, totaling 12 MW, are designed to provide reliable and affordable electricity to communities that have long been underserved.

The Three Mini-Grid Projects

1. Tesseney 6 MW Solar PV Mini-Grid System: The largest of the three, this 6 MW solar mini-grid will power Tesseney, a key town near the Sudanese border.
2. Kerk

Improve quality of life – Reliable power will enhance healthcare facilities, enabling them to operate medical equipment effectively. Schools will benefit from improved lighting and access to digital learning tools.
Boost economic growth – Small businesses and local industries will have the energy they need to expand, creating jobs and increasing economic output.
Enhance Environmental Sustainability – Shifting away from diesel generators will significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to Eritrea’s climate goals.
Encourage private investment – With a growing renewable energy sector, Eritrea is positioning itself as an attractive destination for investors looking to develop clean energy solutions.

While the prospects are promising, the success of these projects will depend on overcoming several challenges. Technical capacity remains a critical issue, requiring continuous training and investment in human resources to ensure the smooth operation of the mini-grids. Financial sustainability is another concern, as long-term success will require affordable pricing models that balance cost recovery with accessibility for low-income households.
Moreover, integrating these mini-grids into the national energy framework will require strong policy support and infrastructure development. The government’s commitment to creating a favorable regulatory environment will be crucial in attracting further investment and ensuring the long-term viability of these projects.

As the world transitions toward cleaner energy sources, initiatives like these highlight the power of strategic investments in sustainability. Eritrea’s commitment to renewable energy is a testament to Africa’s potential to lead the way in green energy transformation, proving that even the most challenging environments can become hubs of innovation and progress.

Integrating ESG for ethical and sustainable critical minerals supply

Africa
Energy

Christopher Burke

March 17, 2025

Integrating ESG for ethical and sustainable critical minerals supply

The global demand for critical minerals is reshaping geopolitics, economic competition and the sustainability agenda. These minerals underpin the transition to renewable energy and digital infrastructure—both central to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Securing their supply has contributed significantly to tension, conflict and environmental degradation. The challenge lies not only in ensuring availability, but integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles to mitigate risks and maximize benefits for all stakeholders.

ESG and the critical minerals supply chain

Critical minerals are fundamental to decarbonization and digitalization. Lithium, cobalt and nickel power batteries for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage. Rare earth elements are essential for wind turbines, solar panels and advanced computing. Copper remains indispensable for electrification while elements such as tin and tantalum drive technological innovation. Yet, the supply chains for these minerals are often marred by exploitative labor practices, environmental degradation and community displacement.

An ESG-aligned approach to mineral extraction and processing provides a pathway to address these concerns. Companies, investors and governments can explore collaborations that establish transparent and ethical supply chains to ensure extraction respects human rights, safeguards biodiversity and promotes inclusive economic growth.

Governance, due diligence and ethical sourcing

The regulatory landscape for critical minerals is evolving rapidly to integrate ESG considerations. The European Union’s Conflict Minerals Regulation and the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act have introduced stricter due diligence requirements, pushing for responsible sourcing and domestic processing. An increasing number of countries from Indonesia to Namibia are implementing policies to ensure more value is captured locally, reducing dependence on raw material exports and promoting industrial development.

Investors and multinational corporations must enhance their human rights due diligence to ensure sourcing practices align with international frameworks such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. Sustainable financing mechanisms, including green bonds and impact investment funds, can incentivize responsible mining and processing practices.

Addressing geopolitical and environmental risks

The concentration of critical mineral reserves and processing capacity in a handful of countries exposes global supply chains to geopolitical risks. China dominates rare earths processing, while the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) supplies 70 percent of the world’s cobalt, often under precarious conditions. Recent disputes over mineral access coupled with export restrictions and geopolitical rivalries have heightened the urgency of diversifying supply sources and investing in recycling technologies.

The environmental impact of mining cannot be overlooked. Extractive activities contribute to deforestation, water contamination, and soil degradation, undermining local ecosystems and community resilience. ESG aligned policies prioritize circular economy models that foster resource efficiency through mineral recovery, urban mining and material substitution to reduce dependency on primary extraction.

A just transition

For the transition to a low-carbon economy to be truly sustainable, it must be inclusive. Mining communities, particularly in emerging economies, must benefit from responsible resource governance. Capacity-building initiatives, equitable revenue-sharing mechanisms and participatory decision-making can ensure that mineral wealth translates into long-term social and economic gains.

Genuinely sustainable mining initiatives should integrate climate resilience strategies that safeguard water resources and rehabilitate degraded landscapes. Companies committed to ESG excellence must engage with Indigenous communities, uphold labor rights and adhere to free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) principles.

The road ahead

The critical minerals boom presents opportunities and a challenges. Stakeholders can navigate supply chain vulnerabilities while advancing the SDGs by embedding ESG principles into extraction, processing and trade. Governments, businesses and civil society must collaborate to foster resilient, transparent and sustainable mineral supply chains. This is not only a moral imperative, but a strategic necessity for a just and green transition in the 21st Century.

Christopher Burke is a senior advisor at WMC Africa, a communications and advisory agency located in Kampala, Uganda. With nearly 30 years of experience, he has worked extensively on social, political and economic development issues focused on extractives, environmental issues, land governance, agriculture, advocacy, communications, conflict mediation and peace-building in Asia and Africa.

Join the ECO30 sustainable living challenge 2025

News

External Source

March 17, 2025

Join the ECO30 sustainable living challenge 2025

Applications are now open for the ECO30 Sustainable Living Challenge 2025, an exciting global initiative designed to inspire individuals and families to embrace sustainable habits and lifestyles. This 30-day challenge will take place throughout April 2025, providing participants with daily tasks that promote a greener, more sustainable future. If you are passionate about making a positive impact on the environment and adopting long-term sustainable habits.

The ECO30 Sustainable Living Challenge is a month-long program aimed at promoting practical sustainability practices among individuals and households. By encouraging people to integrate sustainable habits into their daily lives, the challenge helps foster a culture of environmental responsibility. The initiative focuses on three core dimensions of sustainability:

Economic Sustainability: Encouraging responsible consumption and mindful financial decisions that contribute to a stable and sustainable economy.
Social Sustainability: Promoting community engagement, ethical living, and inclusivity.
Environmental Sustainability: Advocating for actions that protect the planet, such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and conservation efforts.

Participants who register for the ECO30 Sustainable Living Challenge will receive daily emails throughout April 2025, each containing a unique sustainability task. These challenges are designed to be practical, achievable, and impactful.
By completing these daily challenges, participants will cultivate long-lasting sustainable habits that benefit both their immediate environment and the planet as a whole.

Why should you join?

By participating in the ECO30 Sustainable Living Challenge, you will:
Become part of a global movement: Join a community of like-minded individuals committed to sustainability.
Gain exclusive access to a private LinkedIn group: Connect with fellow participants, share experiences, ask questions, and receive support throughout the challenge.
Win exciting prizes: Every completed challenge increases your chances of winning in a prize draw.
Receive a certificate of excellence: Participants who successfully complete all 30 challenges will earn a digital certificate recognizing their commitment to sustainable living.

Who Can Participate?

The ECO30 Sustainable Living Challenge is open to anyone who is eager to make a positive impact on the environment. Whether you are an individual or a family, a student or a working professional, you are welcome to join, regardless of your location. The challenge is designed to be inclusive and adaptable to various lifestyles and backgrounds.

How to apply?

Signing up for the ECO30 Sustainable Living Challenge is free and straightforward. Simply visit HERE. Once registered, you will start receiving daily challenge emails throughout April 2025.

AASuP swears in 12-member executive council to drive sustainability in Ghana

Africa

External Source

March 17, 2025

AASuP swears in 12-member executive council to drive sustainability in Ghana

The Association of African Sustainability Practitioners (AASuP) has officially sworn in a 12-member National Executive Council, tasked with leading sustainability efforts in Ghana and contributing to Africa’s broader environmental and developmental goals. This leadership team will oversee strategic initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable practices across industries and fostering collaboration to drive meaningful climate action.

At the inauguration ceremony held on March 14, 2025, at Accra Technical University, Cedric Dzelu, speaking on behalf of the Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability, highlighted the critical role of sustainability in Ghana’s future. He emphasized that AASuP must take a leading role in advancing climate action and ensuring that sustainability remains a core consideration across all professional sectors.

Dzelu also underscored the need for innovation in sustainability, urging technical universities to act as hubs for research and development in green technology. He noted that sustainable development is a long-term commitment that requires continuous dedication and collaboration among stakeholders. He assured AASuP members of his support, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in achieving Ghana’s sustainability objectives.

President of the newly formed council, Humphrey Tetteh, reiterated the significance of proactive leadership in implementing sustainability initiatives. He called on members to take decisive steps in ensuring that institutions across the country adopt and integrate sustainability programs. Tetteh stressed that AASuP’s impact should extend beyond Ghana, contributing to sustainability progress across Africa.

“Our role is crucial in shaping Ghana’s sustainability landscape, but we must also think beyond borders. I hope that within the next two years, AASuP will be recognized as a leader in setting the pace for sustainable change across the continent,” Tetteh remarked.
New AASuP Executive Council MembersThe newly sworn-in executive council consists of experienced professionals from diverse sectors, each bringing unique expertise to drive sustainability initiatives forward. The members include:

Kojo Kwakye Gyan – Head of Risk and Sustainability Management, Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund
Engineer Kweku Wiafe – Director of Engineering, Volta River Authority
Mohammed Nasiru – Energy and Infrastructure Advisor, Embassy of Korea
Ruth Abanga – Corporate Social Responsibility/Sustainability Officer, GRIDCo
Mercedes Maud Naadei Ashey – Head of Internal Audit, Minerals and Income Investment Fund
Samuel Ekow Acquah – Manager of Strategy, Risk, and Compliance, GRIDCo
Rev. Stephen Agyei – Director of Contract Management, Qatar Foundation in Doha
Kingsley Owusu Anum – Head of Sustainability, Agricultural Development Bank
Afua A. Baidoo – Senior Environmental and Social Risk Coordinator, Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund
Cedric Dzelu – Ministry of Climate Change and Sustainability
Humphrey Tetteh – President of AASuP

The new leadership is expected to spearhead sustainability initiatives that align with national and continental goals. Their primary focus areas include:

-Promoting Climate Action Policies: The council will work closely with policymakers to ensure that sustainability is integrated into national policies and regulatory frameworks.
-Driving Cross-Sector Collaboration: By fostering partnerships between public and private sectors, AASuP aims to create synergies that accelerate sustainable development initiatives.
-Enhancing Sustainability Education: The council plans to support educational institutions in incorporating sustainability into their curricula, equipping future professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills.
-Encouraging Green Innovation: AASuP will advocate for increased investment in research and development to drive technological advancements in sustainability.
-Advancing Renewable Energy Adoption: The council will push for broader adoption of renewable energy solutions to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote cleaner energy alternatives.

Ghana, like many African nations, faces significant environmental challenges, including deforestation, pollution, and climate change-induced weather extremes. Addressing these issues requires strong leadership and coordinated efforts from various stakeholders. AASuP’s new council is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping policies and practices that contribute to Ghana’s sustainability transition while setting a precedent for other African countries to follow.

With Africa’s increasing recognition on the global sustainability stage, Ghana is poised to become a key player in shaping the continent’s environmental policies. The work of AASuP’s executive council will be instrumental in positioning Ghana as a leader in sustainable development. Through strategic planning, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement, the council aims to drive measurable impact in key areas such as renewable energy, circular economy practices, and climate resilience.

The newly appointed council members bring a wealth of expertise that will be invaluable in advancing AASuP’s mission. By leveraging their diverse backgrounds, the council is well-positioned to foster a holistic approach to sustainability that integrates economic, social, and environmental considerations.

KenGen CEO Eng. Peter Njenga appointed to chair global task force on energy

Africa
Energy

External Source

March 17, 2025

KenGen CEO Eng. Peter Njenga appointed to chair global task force on energy

Kenya’s leadership in renewable energy has received a significant boost with the appointment of Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen) Managing Director and CEO, Eng. Peter Njenga, as Co-Chair of the Business 20 (B20) Task Force on Energy Mix and Just Transition. This appointment places him at the helm of discussions on sustainable energy transition under South Africa’s G20 presidency in 2025.

This strategic appointment reinforces Africa’s growing influence in shaping global energy policies. As a continent rich in renewable energy resources, Africa is well-positioned to lead in the shift toward cleaner, more sustainable power solutions. Eng. Njenga’s leadership in the task force aligns with Kenya’s continued commitment to advancing green energy while addressing economic and social equity concerns.

Kenya has long been recognized as a renewable energy powerhouse, with over 90% of its electricity generated from clean sources. KenGen, as the country’s leading energy producer, has played a central role in this transformation. With an installed capacity of over 1,786MW, including 754MW from geothermal sources, KenGen has demonstrated that sustainable energy is not just an environmental necessity but also a viable economic strategy.

Under Eng. Njenga’s leadership, KenGen has expanded its renewable energy portfolio, reinforcing Kenya’s role as a trailblazer in climate resilience and sustainable economic growth. His new position within the B20 Task Force on Energy Mix and Just Transition further amplifies the continent’s voice in global energy debates. The task force will work closely with governments, financial institutions, and private sector leaders to develop recommendations on clean energy adoption, energy security, and climate resilience, with the final proposals feeding into the G20 Leaders’ Summit later in the year.

Africa’s inclusion in such global policy discussions is crucial. The continent faces unique challenges, including energy access, financing gaps, and infrastructure development needs. By ensuring that these issues are part of the global conversation, this appointment offers a rare opportunity to shape energy policies that prioritize sustainable investments, equitable financing mechanisms, and inclusive economic models.

Eng. Njenga’s expertise in scaling up renewable energy solutions in a developing economy context makes him a vital contributor to this dialogue. His appointment also strengthens KenGen’s position as a key player in global energy transition efforts. The company continues to expand its geothermal capacity while exploring opportunities in wind and solar energy, cementing its role as a sustainability leader in Africa and beyond.

As the world accelerates efforts toward decarbonization, Africa’s leadership in renewable energy will be instrumental in defining the future of sustainable energy. Eng. Njenga’s appointment highlights Kenya’s continued commitment to clean energy innovation and positions Africa as a key stakeholder in shaping global energy policy. Through strategic partnerships and policy influence, this milestone paves the way for an energy transition that is not only environmentally responsible but also economically and socially inclusive.

AgriCarbon becomes Africa’s first regenerative farming programme to receive Verra Certified Carbon Credits

Africa
Carbon offseting

External Source

March 13, 2025

AgriCarbon becomes Africa’s first regenerative farming programme to receive Verra Certified Carbon Credits

AgriCarbon, a pioneering carbon farming initiative by Anthesis, has made history as the first African programme to achieve Verra certification under the VM0042 Agricultural Land Management methodology. This landmark achievement underscores the growing role of regenerative agriculture in mitigating climate change and highlights Africa’s potential in carbon credit markets.

The Verra VM0042 methodology is designed to quantify greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions and soil organic carbon (SOC) removals through improved land management practices. By securing certification, AgriCarbon has set a new standard for agricultural carbon projects in Africa, offering farmers an opportunity to earn carbon credits through sustainable farming.

Since its launch in 2021, the programme has worked with 29 farmers across 17,582 hectares in South Africa, implementing regenerative practices such as cover cropping, reduced tillage, and diversified crop rotations. These approaches improve soil health, enhance agricultural productivity, and convert farmlands into carbon sinks that absorb CO2 from the atmosphere. The results speak for themselves—39,207 tonnes of carbon credits have been issued, backed by 70,000 unique data points collected over three years.

AgriCarbon’s achievement marks a major step forward for climate-smart agriculture in Africa. As the first VM0042 project listed with Verra, it has introduced a scientifically validated soil carbon model specifically tailored for Southern Africa. This milestone proves that regenerative farming is not only viable but also financially rewarding for farmers through carbon credit generation.

Franz Rentel, Managing Director of Anthesis South Africa, emphasized the programme’s role in shaping the industry:
“What was once an uncharted territory is now a thriving sector, with projects worldwide building on what we started. This achievement underscores how bold ideas, backed by strategic expertise, can drive real impact and reshape industries for a more sustainable future.”

AgriCarbon’s Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) system ensures transparency and accuracy in emissions reductions. The initiative is further supported by Trace & Save and Intelact, two leading agricultural consultancies that provide technical expertise and independent validation. The entire process has been third-party audited by SCS Global, with additional assessments conducted by the Nutrient Management Institute (NMI) at Wageningen University in the Netherlands.

By producing high-quality carbon credits, AgriCarbon provides farmers with an additional revenue stream to support the adoption of regenerative practices. Unlike companies that only purchase offsets, Anthesis actively develops high-impact carbon projects, ensuring real-world environmental and economic benefits.

Arjen Struijk, Global Executive Director for Climate & Nature at Anthesis, highlighted the broader implications of this success:
“Through AgriCarbon, we are committed to helping companies and governments achieve their net zero and nature-climate goals. By scaling this vital climate solution, we are enabling farmers, and the clients who use these credits, to enhance soil health, biodiversity, and climate resilience while contributing to meaningful emissions reductions.”

Looking ahead, Anthesis aims to expand AgriCarbon’s reach, enabling more farmers to participate in carbon markets. The programme will continue providing technical support, training, and tools to maximize carbon sequestration and improve climate resilience. With its proven success, AgriCarbon is positioned to play a crucial role in driving the global transition towards sustainable agriculture. As the programme scales, it invites farmers, partners, and businesses to join the movement and be part of a sustainable farming future.

Rural Electrification Agency of Nigeria to establish renewable asset management company

Economic Responsibility
Energy

Dr. Edward Mungai

March 13, 2025

Rural Electrification Agency of Nigeria to establish renewable asset management company

The Rural Electrification Agency of Nigeria has received approval to set up a renewable asset management company to support its ongoing efforts in improving electricity access across Nigeria. This move is expected to ensure the long-term sustainability of the agency’s interventions in renewable energy infrastructure.

Speaking at a signing ceremony in Abuja, the Managing Director of REA, Abba Aliyu, outlined the agency’s strategy to leverage the new company’s assets for additional funding. According to him, the company will manage a portfolio of renewable energy assets, including infrastructure worth approximately $500 million, which has already been deployed to universities.

The establishment of this entity is expected to help REA raise nearly N1 trillion, enabling continued interventions in rural electrification projects even in the absence of loans or grants. The initiative aligns with the agency’s vision of ensuring Nigeria becomes self-reliant in expanding electricity access and strengthening infrastructure development for years to come.

In addition to this initiative, President Bola Tinubu has approved a funding allocation of N100 billion for REA to implement the National Public Sector Solarisation project. This federal government-led initiative aims to lower the cost of governance by reducing public sector expenditure on diesel and electricity.

Analysis of budget implementation in various government institutions has highlighted significant spending on energy costs, particularly the purchase of diesel and electricity bills. By transitioning to solar power, the government seeks to enhance efficiency and cut operational costs.

Beyond this, REA is in advanced discussions with the Japanese International Development Corporation to secure additional co-financing worth $200 million. This funding will supplement the existing $750 million available under the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy program, bringing the total financing to $950 million.

A recent trip to Japan by REA’s leadership, accompanied by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, played a key role in advancing negotiations. With discussions nearing completion, the funds are expected to be made available soon, bolstering efforts to expand renewable energy adoption across the country.

As part of its commitment to electrification through renewable energy, REA signed an agreement with several Renewable Energy Service Companies (RESCOs). The agreement is aimed at accelerating the deployment of solar power solutions to homes and businesses in Nigeria.

One of the major players in this initiative, Oando Clean Energy, announced plans to roll out 600 megawatts of renewable energy by 2026. This project is expected to enhance energy access not just in Nigeria but across the African continent. Additionally, the company is working on establishing Africa’s first modular solar assembly plant with an integrated recycling line.

Other companies involved in the agreement include Ashipa Electric Limited, De-Janees Concept Ltd, Fax Power Ltd, M&BH Power Ltd, Okra Solar PTY Ltd, Oando Clean Energy, Sosai Renewable Energy Ltd, and Weight Nigeria Ltd. These firms will contribute to expanding Nigeria’s renewable energy landscape by implementing clean energy solutions and improving electricity accessibility.

Through these efforts, REA is positioning itself as a key driver in Nigeria’s transition to sustainable energy. By leveraging asset-backed financing, securing international partnerships, and collaborating with private sector players, the agency is working to bridge Nigeria’s energy gap and promote long-term renewable energy development.

Climate risk opportunities for software companies

innovation
Technology

Angela Onyango

March 12, 2025

Climate risk opportunities for software companies

Climate change presents both risks and opportunities for businesses worldwide, and software companies are uniquely positioned to drive solutions that enhance resilience, sustainability, and efficiency. As extreme weather events become more frequent and regulatory pressures increase, companies that develop climate-focused software can play a crucial role in mitigating risks while tapping into emerging market demands.

One of the most significant opportunities lies in climate data and risk analytics. Businesses, governments, and financial institutions need advanced tools to assess and manage their exposure to climate-related risks. Software solutions that leverage artificial intelligence and big data can analyze weather patterns, predict extreme climate events, and provide actionable insights. AI-driven risk modeling can forecast floods, wildfires, and droughts, helping industries such as agriculture, insurance, and logistics prepare for disruptions. Financial institutions also require advanced analytics tools to assess how climate risks affect investments, supply chains, and infrastructure.

As more companies commit to reducing their environmental impact, carbon footprint tracking and sustainability software are becoming essential. Organizations are under increasing pressure to measure, report, and reduce their emissions in compliance with international sustainability frameworks. Software that automates carbon accounting, tracks energy consumption, and supports sustainable procurement decisions can help businesses meet their climate commitments while improving operational efficiency. AI-driven energy management systems can optimize heating, cooling, and electricity use in buildings, reducing emissions and lowering costs.

With rising global temperatures and increasing energy demands, smart infrastructure solutions are another key area of opportunity. Software that enhances the efficiency of electricity grids, integrates renewable energy sources, and optimizes energy storage can help address climate-related challenges in the energy sector. Smart grid management platforms can improve energy distribution and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, while predictive maintenance software can detect vulnerabilities in infrastructure before failures occur, preventing costly disruptions.

Agriculture, one of the most climate-sensitive industries, also presents a significant opportunity for software companies. Farmers need better tools to adapt to changing weather conditions, optimize resource use, and enhance food security. AI-powered weather forecasting models can provide more accurate predictions, helping farmers prepare for extreme weather events. Precision agriculture platforms that use satellite imagery and IoT sensors can optimize water and fertilizer use, reducing environmental impact while improving crop yields. Food supply chain transparency solutions, such as blockchain-based platforms, can help track and verify sustainable sourcing practices, ensuring ethical and environmentally friendly agricultural production.

As businesses face increasing regulatory scrutiny on their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, the demand for ESG and climate disclosure software is rising. Companies need streamlined platforms that simplify data collection, analysis, and reporting. AI-powered ESG reporting tools can automate the process, ensuring compliance with regulations while providing investors and stakeholders with transparent sustainability metrics. Integrated platforms that help businesses track and improve their ESG performance will be instrumental in driving responsible corporate practices.

Another growing area of interest is disaster response and humanitarian technology. Climate-related disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, and extreme heatwaves, are becoming more frequent and severe. Early warning systems powered by AI can help predict and mitigate the impact of natural disasters, providing real-time alerts to vulnerable communities. Emergency coordination software can improve disaster response efforts, ensuring more effective distribution of aid and resources. Climate migration tracking platforms can help governments and humanitarian organizations monitor displacement patterns and plan long-term solutions for affected populations.

Continue

Sustainable water management in Africa

Africa

Angela Onyango

March 12, 2025

Africa is a land of vast landscapes and diverse ecosystems, but managing water sustainably is a growing challenge. While some regions receive plenty of rainfall, others struggle with constant drought, worsened by climate change. Finding fair and innovative water solutions is essential—not just for survival but for the continent’s economy and environment.

Sustainable water management in Africa means more than just providing clean water; it requires a broader approach that connects water resources, the environment, and economic development. Climate change is making water systems more vulnerable, bringing unpredictable rainfall, longer droughts, and severe floods. These shifts disrupt traditional water cycles and put pressure on already fragile infrastructure.

Rural communities are especially affected since they rely on rain-fed farming and natural water sources. To secure water access, investment in climate-smart infrastructure—like rainwater harvesting and small-scale irrigation—is crucial. These solutions help communities adapt to environmental changes while strengthening their water security.

Protecting natural water sources is just as important. Wetlands, rivers, and underground water reservoirs act as natural filters and regulators, maintaining water quality and supply. However, pollution, deforestation, and poor land use are threatening these ecosystems. A smarter approach—called Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM)—takes into account the entire water cycle and the needs of all users, helping safeguard these essential resources.

Africa’s cities are also facing major water challenges. Rapid urban growth, outdated infrastructure, and poor sanitation are causing water shortages and pollution. Investing in better water treatment, leak detection, and recycling technologies is key to ensuring a steady and safe water supply in fast-growing urban areas.

Water inequality is another critical issue. Many marginalized groups—especially women and children—struggle the most with water shortages. Achieving fairness means creating inclusive policies that give everyone a voice in managing water resources and ensuring equal access for all.

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in water management. Tools like remote sensing, data analytics, and mobile apps can track water availability, quality, and use, helping decision-makers plan better. But technology alone isn’t enough—building local skills, sharing knowledge, and involving communities in water management is just as important. Education and training programs can empower people to take charge of their water resources and promote sustainable water use.

Looking ahead, Africa’s water future depends on shifting towards long-term, sustainable solutions. Governments, businesses, civil society, and local communities must work together. By adopting integrated strategies, investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, and ensuring fair water access, Africa can overcome its water challenges and secure a better future for all.

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