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Denmark expands green collaboration across the African continent

Turning policy into action, Denmark have announced new energy cooperation with Morocco and an expanded alliance with Kenya, supporting renewable energy expansion and promoting access to affordable green electricity in both countries.
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13 November 2024

Explore the strategy "Africa's century"

Denmark and the EU aim for greater attention to the wishes and priorities of the African countries. Equal partnerships with African countries are a central focus of the new strategy “Africa’s century”.

Discover the strategy "Africa's century"

With nearly 40% of the world’s renewable energy resources, Africa holds significant potential to drive green energy solutions. Recognising this, several African nations are actively working to establish sustainable energy systems aimed at economic growth and job creation. Denmark’s Africa Strategy highlights the importance of a broad-based collaboration across the continent to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainable development.

Also read: Denmark ramps up its green engagements with African countries

New collaborations with Morocco and Kenya

As part of its commitment to sustainable energy, Denmark is advancing its Africa Strategy through fresh partnerships. A new agreement with Morocco and an enhanced partnership with Kenya mark the next phase of Denmark’s energy collaboration on the continent. These efforts also complement Denmark’s ongoing energy collaborations with Egypt, Ethiopia, and South Africa.

“This is a prime example of how we can transform the Africa Strategy’s ambitions into real-world outcomes through mutually beneficial partnerships. By supporting African nations in their green transition, we contribute to global climate goals while establishing stronger ties and fostering relationships that extend beyond individual projects. Africa has a large potential as a green energy hub, and Danish expertise and technology can play a key role.” Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Denmark’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

“Our partnerships with Kenya and Morocco show how Denmark can support green transformation beyond its borders. These countries are committed to making green transition a driver for development and growth, and I’m pleased that Danish experience can help contribute to this journey.” Lars Aagaard, Danish Minister for Climate, Energy, and Utilities

The enhanced cooperation with Kenya was announced today at COP29 during Africa’s Green Momentum, where Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen participated. The event continues the dialogue from the African Climate Summit in September 2023 and brings together partners involved in the Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa (APRA), a Danish-supported initiative promoting Africa’s green industrialisation.

Creating conditions for renewable energy

Both Kenya and Morocco have set ambitious targets for renewable electricity generation: Kenya aims for 100% green power by 2030, while Morocco targets 52%. Denmark’s support will focus on building frameworks that enable wind and solar energy production, fostering long-term energy planning, and developing flexible energy systems. Danish expertise in grid development is expected to play a crucial role, in ensuring that renewable energy reaches end users effectively.

“Our Africa Strategy underscores the priority of strengthening trade partnerships in African nations. Many of these countries are already showing interest in Danish solutions, particularly within wind energy and energy efficiency. If our collaboration can pave the way for Danish technologies, that’s exceptional.” Lars Aagaard, Danish Minister for Climate, Energy, and Utilities.

These initiatives are anticipated to yield multiple benefits in both countries, including reduced CO₂ emissions and lower energy costs for consumers. In Morocco, the collaboration is expected to enhance energy independence by reducing reliance on imported fuels, while in Kenya, it will support the national goal of universal electricity access.

Facts and further information

  • A sector advisor will be deployed to the Danish embassy in Rabat, Morocco, serving as a crucial link in the local implementation of the energy partnership.
  • Since 2022, Denmark has engaged in a bilateral energy collaboration with Kenya, where an energy advisor is stationed at the Danish embassy in Nairobi.
  • The expanded cooperation includes placing three long-term advisors in Kenya’s Ministry of Energy and Petroleum.
  • Denmark’s partnerships with Kenya and Morocco are part of a broader framework of Danish energy collaborations with 25 countries, representing around 70% of global CO₂ emissions.

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