Report on Strategic Raw Materials for Energy Transition: New Partnership Opportunities Between Europe and Africa

The roundtable and networking lunch organized by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung provided a platform for stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue on the theme of “Strategic Raw Materials for Energy Transition: New Partnership Opportunities between Europe and Africa.” The event underscored the critical role of Africa’s resources, including lithium, cobalt, and rare earths, in powering renewable energy technologies essential for achieving global sustainability goals.

Challenges in Responsible Resource Extraction: One of the key challenges discussed was the need to balance the extraction of these resources with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. Ensuring responsible resource extraction while meeting the growing demand for renewable energy presents significant challenges that require international cooperation.

Initiatives for Sustainable Partnerships: The dialogue aimed to explore new forms of partnerships that ensure energy security for Europe while fostering sustainable economic growth in Africa. Participants emphasized the importance of establishing value chains in African countries to promote local economic development and address concerns about supply chain security.

AEFJN’s Perspective and Contribution: The Africa Europe Faith and Justice Network (AEFJN) highlighted the importance of justice in shaping partnerships between Africa and Europe. Rooted in Christian faith and the Social Teaching of the Church, AEFJN advocated for equitable partnerships that prioritize the interests of all stakeholders, particularly marginalized communities.

Collaborative Opportunities: AEFJN expressed its readiness to with other like-minded institutions to translate dialogue into action. By sharing expertise and implementing programs that promote sustainable development and social justice in Africa, AEFJN aims to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

Interveners:

• Dr. Olaf WIENTZEK, Head of the Multinational Development Policy Dialogue, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung
• Ms. Anja BERETTA, Head of Regional Programme Energy Security and Climate Change in Sub-Saharan Africa, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung

Speakers:

• Mr Ross Graeme HARVEY, Director of Research and Programmes, Good Governance Africa, South Africa
• Mr Ibrahim Ahmed JABRI, Africa Special Programmes Lead, UN-Climate Change High-Level Champions, Kenya
• Mr Chitumba Ian MWIINGA, National Coordinator, EITI Secretary, Zambia

• Mr Silas O’chego OLAN’G, African Energy Transition Policy Advisor, National Resource Governance Institute, Tanzania
• Ms Chantelle Gloria MOYO, Attorney specializing in environmental law and programme manager at Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, Kenya

Invited Guests:

• Ms Hildegard BENTELE, MEP
• Ms Hanne KNAEPEN & Mr Alfonso MEDINILLA, Heads of Team, Climate Action and Green Transition, European Centre for Development Policy Management
• Mr Roemer SIJMONS, Adviser, Business Europe
• Ms Anne PLÖGER, Adviser to Hildegard Bentele, MEP
• Mr Falko BUSCHKE, Africa Knowledge Platform, JRC, European Commission
• Br. Elvis NG’ANDWE, M.Afr, Executive Secretary, Africa Europe Faith and Justice Network (AEFJN)
• Ms. Esther HAFTENDORN, Advisor, GIZ, Brussels
• Mr. Michael FRANZ, GET.invest, Team Leader
• Mr. Ruud KEMPENER, Team Leader, European Commission
• Mr. Máté HEISZ, Director of Global Affairs, SolarPower Europe

The event brought together a diverse range of speakers and invited guests, representing various sectors and perspectives, to foster a comprehensive discussion on strategic raw materials for energy transition and partnership opportunities between Europe and Africa.

Br. Elvis Ng’andwe, M.Afr

AEFJN Executive Secretary