King Letsie III Champions Just and Inclusive Energy Transition for Africa at Global Conference

His Majesty King Letsie III delivered a compelling keynote address at the 10th Annual Global Conference on Energy Efficiency, placing Africa at the heart of the global energy dialogue. Speaking to more than 700 delegates from over 90 countries, His Majesty spotlighted the continent’s pressing energy challenges while outlining a bold vision for a just, inclusive, and sustainable transition.

In his address, King Letsie III described energy affordability as a human issue, stating, “Energy affordability is a crucial issue that touches lives. It must go hand in hand with cleaner, more accessible, and just solutions.”

His remarks resonated deeply, as he tackled some of the most urgent energy issues affecting millions across the African continent. With over half the population still depending on traditional biomass for cooking, the health and environmental impacts are severe. His Majesty stressed that any solution must be people-centred and adapted to Africa’s growing population and local infrastructure.

Central to his speech was a call for tailored innovations that can be scaled across rural and urban communities alike. He urged governments and development partners to design technologies that address specific African realities, from unstable grid systems to low household incomes.

Strategic cooperation, King Letsie III noted, must also play a crucial role. By supporting regional frameworks like the Southern and West African Power Pools, countries can share resources, stabilize energy access, and reduce costs across borders.

The monarch was equally passionate about justice in Africa’s energy transition. He called for a framework rooted in restorative, distributive, and procedural justice, ensuring that every citizen—not just elites or external investors—can participate in and benefit from the clean energy shift.

A notable portion of his speech was dedicated to youth and women. King Letsie III emphasized the critical importance of including these groups through technical training, leadership development, and targeted investment. He described them as not just beneficiaries, but as drivers of Africa’s energy future.

On the path to global climate goals, His Majesty pointed out the stark reality of Africa’s financial needs. The continent requires $2.5 trillion by 2030 to meet COP28 targets, yet faces an 88% funding gap. Worse still, most financing comes through debt rather than equity or direct investment.

Despite these challenges, King Letsie III offered a message of hope. Africa, he reminded the world, holds 60% of the planet’s solar energy potential. With visionary leadership, international support, and smart investment, the continent can become a leader in green industrialisation and inclusive economic growth.

His Majesty’s keynote served as a rallying call—not only for policymakers but for the global community—to view Africa not as a passive recipient of aid, but as a powerful partner in building a sustainable energy future for all.