Expanding electricity access is dramatically changing lives across Africa, from urban settlements like Nairobi to rural communities in western Kenya. Increased access is improving livelihoods and fostering economic growth.

Transforming Lives Through Power

Before dawn in the narrow alleys of Mathare, an informal settlement in Nairobi, Kenya, Agnes Mbesa switches on a single bulb hanging from her tin roof. For years, she relied on smoky kerosene lamps. Now, electricity illuminates her home and powers the small shop she runs.

“Before the power came, we closed early because it was too dark,” Mbesa said. “Now people come even at night, and I can earn something.”

Hundreds of kilometers away in Sori, western Kenya, fisherman Samuel Oketch shares a similar experience. A solar mini-grid reaching his village allowed him to purchase a freezer to preserve his catch.

“These small changes mean a lot,” Oketch said. “Electricity gives us options. My wife can now sell without being taken advantage of by brokers who had the freezers.”

Significant New Investment

More than 730 million people globally lack electricity, with approximately 600 million residing in Africa. Limited access hinders healthcare, education, digital connectivity, and job creation. New financial commitments aim to accelerate progress.

European Investment Bank Pledges Support

In March, the European Investment Bank pledged over $1.15 billion for renewable energy projects across sub-Saharan Africa. These projects include hydropower, solar, wind, and grid expansion initiatives.

“This funding is Europe’s commitment to provide cleaner, more affordable, and reliable energy for hundreds of millions of people in Africa,” said European Investment Bank President Nadia Calviño.

Rockefeller Foundation Boosts Electrification Programs

Also in March, at the Africa Energy Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa, the Rockefeller Foundation announced an additional $10 million investment to support electrification programs in at least 15 African countries. This funding will be deployed with the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet to strengthen national programs and support government reforms.

“African governments are choosing to transform their energy sectors by committing to national energy compacts and investing in African-led solutions,” said William Asiko, senior vice president at the Rockefeller Foundation.

Expanding Access Through Innovative Solutions

The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet aims to connect 300 million people in sub-Saharan Africa to electricity by 2030 through grid expansion and decentralized solutions like mini-grids and off-grid solar.

Across Africa, mini-grids – small, community-level systems powered by solar or hybrid energy – are emerging as a key alternative to often unreliable national grids. Off-grid systems, including stand-alone solar kits, provide direct access to power in remote areas.

The initiative is providing technical assistance to governments in Malawi and Liberia to support national energy plans and improve distribution systems. Efforts in Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Senegal include local currency financing and pooled procurement support.

Kenya's Progress and Future Goals

Kenya has received funding since 2017 from the World Bank, African Development Bank, and partners under Mission 300 to support its Last Mile Connectivity program. This program targets households near existing transformers, particularly in rural areas and informal settlements, aiming for universal electricity access by 2030.

Rural access rose to about 68% in 2023 from just under 7% in 2010. World Bank programs aim to expand access in up to 20 countries over the next seven years through renewable energy projects.

For Mbesa, the impact is already clear. The single bulb above her shop has extended her working hours and allowed her children to study at night.

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