WASCAL reaffirmed its commitment to driving a sustainable energy future during the ECOWAS Sustainable Energy Forum (ESEF 2024), held in Abidjan under the theme “Towards a Just Energy Transition in West Africa.” Chaired by Ivorian Minister of Mines, Oil and Energy, Mr Mamadou Sangafowa-Coulibaly, the forum convened policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and development partners to explore innovative energy solutions, with green hydrogen technologies taking centre stage.
During the forum, WASCAL hosted a session titled “Strategic Partnership for Scaling up Green Hydrogen Technologies in West Africa.” The session underscored the organisation’s dedication to establishing green hydrogen as a pillar of the region’s sustainable energy strategy. Professor Emmanuel Ramdé, Executive Director of WASCAL, highlighted the need for collaborative investments and regional cooperation to accelerate the implementation of ECOWAS’s green hydrogen strategy. He emphasised that WASCAL’s mission is to position West Africa as a global leader in green hydrogen by fostering research, innovation, and regional integration.
“Our mission is to position West Africa as a global leader in green hydrogen by fostering research, innovation, and regional integration. Through strategic partnerships and capacity-building initiatives, we are driving sustainable development and energy independence,” stated Prof. Ramdé. He further stressed WASCAL’s holistic approach, which includes various regional initiatives such as the Waste-to-Energy project in Ghana, PV2H in Burkina Faso, and Nigeria4H, all designed to enhance the region’s renewable energy capabilities.
The session, moderated by Dr. Bruno Korgo, Senior Scientist and Coordinator for WASCAL Renewable Energy and Green Hydrogen, highlighted the transformative potential of green hydrogen in decarbonising industries, transportation, and agriculture while ensuring energy security. Experts from Senegal, GIZ, Hydroma, and the African Development Bank (AfDB) provided valuable insights, calling for robust public-private partnerships to drive innovation and support the region’s energy transition. This collective effort aims to strengthen the region’s capacity to scale up green hydrogen, promoting sustainable development and energy resilience.
In recognition of its significant contributions to sustainable energy in West Africa, WASCAL was awarded a trophy, symbolising its commitment and leadership in advancing the region’s energy transition.
WASCAL’s participation at ESEF 2024 reinforces its resolve to lead West Africa’s green hydrogen revolution, contributing to a just and sustainable energy future for all. Through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions, WASCAL continues to champion a greener and more energy-independent future for the region.