China-Africa Cooperation Aligns with UNDP's Mission to Accelerate Energy Transition on Continent, Says UNDP Ethiopia Economic Advisor

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2025 (ENA) – UNDP Ethiopia Economic Advisor, Ali Zafar said reaffirmed commitment to collaborating with China and African nations to mobilize climate finance and foster digital and climate-smart innovations.

Speaking at a seminar held at the Ethiopian News Agency under the theme “China Supports Africa’s Industrialization: Promoting Green, Coordinated and Sustainable Development” today, Economic Advisor for UNDP Ethiopia, Ali Zafar noted the urgent need for energy solutions, noting that over 600 million Africans currently lack access to electricity.

He also cited that Ethiopia's energy compact, which aims for 75 percent electricity access and 57 percent clean cooking access by 2030 poised to rely heavily on renewable sources, positioning the nation as a leader in clean energy in Africa.

Zafar expressed his enthusiasm about the gathering, emphasizing that the event which focused on China-Africa cooperation aligns with UNDP's mission to accelerate a just energy transition across the continent.

He noted that China has revolutionized the global renewable energy landscape amid climate change challenges, saying that China's aggressive investments in wind and solar technology have significantly reduced costs over the past 15 years.

Zafar reaffirmed UNDP's commitment to collaborating with China and African nations to mobilize climate finance and foster digital and climate-smart innovations, urging all stakeholders to leverage Africa's abundant renewable resources.

"This is the continent of sun. This is the continent of a lot of wind. Let's use it and develop it."

Through trilateral cooperation with China, UNDP and Ethiopia, notable successes have been made, including in the installation of a 45-kilowatt solar-powered irrigation system and a 300-cubic meter waste-to-energy biogas plant, acceding to Zafar.

He emphasized that China’s extensive experience and ability to mobilize blended finance can support Africa's industrialization and development, particularly in renewable energy projects.

Highlighting the importance of integrating the private sector into the energy transition, drawing parallels between China's public-private partnerships and the potential for similar models in Africa, Zafar noted that the dynamism of Chinese entrepreneurship, supported by government initiatives, offers a blueprint for Africa’s energy strategies.

On his part, UNIDO Representative & Director, Sub Regional Office in Ethiopia, Special Representative to the African Union and UNECA, Stephen Bainous Kargbo expressed his excitement about collaborating with China on industrial and energy initiatives.

He noted the essential link between industrialization and prosperity, stating, "There is no single country in the world that has become prosperous without going through the path of industrialization."

Drawing parallels with China's rapid transformation over the past four decades, Kargbo emphasized how careful planning and execution have lifted over 800 million people out of poverty, asserting that Africa should follow a similar path to achieve industrial growth.

Addressing the challenges faced by African nations, Kargbo pointed out three major obstacles to industrialization: inadequate infrastructure, low manufacturing output, and limited innovation.

He stressed that continuous policy implementation is crucial for sustained development, urging African governments to avoid starting anew with each political transition.

Kargbo also noted the disparity in electrification rates between Africa and China, stating that energy poverty remains a significant barrier to industrial advancement, calling for a broader conversation on energy solutions, including a transition from hydrocarbons to renewable sources.

He underscored the importance of collaboration between Africa and China, particularly in areas such as construction, mining, and manufacturing, underling that strategic partnerships could pave the way for a prosperous future.

Urging African leaders to embrace a long-term vision for industrial development, Kargbo stressed the need for proactive measures and international cooperation to drive Africa towards a more industrialized and prosperous continent.