Zanzibar. Africa has stepped up efforts to end energy poverty with a bold endorsement of “Mission 300,” an initiative to provide clean and modern energy access to at least 300 million people by 2030.
This decision was made during the African Group of Negotiators (AGN) strategic meeting held in Zanzibar from April 28–30. The AGN, which represents Africa in global climate negotiations, said the initiative would play a critical role in linking climate action to sustainable development across the continent.
“Mission 300 is more than an energy plan—it’s a pathway to prosperity,” the meeting’s final resolution stated.
The initiative was previously endorsed by African Heads of State at the African Union Summit in February 2025.
Through investments in decentralized renewable energy, mini-grids, and clean cooking technologies, Mission 300 is expected to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, cut emissions, and unlock co-benefits like job creation, improved education, and better healthcare.
Delegates emphasized that universal access to clean energy will empower women and youth, reduce emissions linked to biomass, and help Africa meet its climate targets under the Paris Agreement. They urged global climate finance mechanisms to support Mission 300 through grants and technology transfer.
The AGN also committed to ensuring the initiative is reflected in Africa’s negotiation strategy for COP30 in Brazil later this year.
With just five years left to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, Mission 300 is being framed as one of Africa’s strongest tools to address both climate vulnerability and energy inequality.