The third annual Africa Oil & Power conference kicked off today with a powerful program featuring petroleum and power ministers, the secretaries general of OPEC, GECF, IEF and APPO, and executives from leading energy companies active in Africa.
South Africa’s Minister of Energy Hon. Jeff Radebe opened the conference with a keynote speech highlighting the importance of cooperation in developing the African energy sector and pointed out that the AOP 2018 theme, Energy Coalitions, was crucial in addressing industry needs, energy challenges and the importance of private-public partnerships.
“Energy poverty in Africa is a serious concern that requires a concerted effort,” said the minister. He also addressed natural gas, which, according to the draft Integrated Resource Plan that was released in August, is set to play a key role in the future of South Africa’s energy mix.
The first day of the conference also hosted a dedicated South Africa country spotlight session moderated by CEO of the South African Oil & Gas Alliance, Niall Kramer. During this session, Radebe discussed challenges in the South African energy sector and potential ways forward. Other topics covered during the session were funding, attracting further investment and the role of the energy sector in economic transformation.
