Reflections from AMP Eswatini at EAIF 2025
Local enterprise partnerships are key to the success and implementation of the Africa Minigrids Program (AMP), owing to how they pool resources, expertise and local knowledge to address challenges that might be encountered in implementing such renewable energy projects. This was underlined by the former AMP Eswatini Project Manager, Saneliso Makhanya, during a Community of Practice (CoP) panel session at the Energy Access Investment Forum (EAIF) held in Kampala, Uganda, from 7 to 10 April 2025.
Makhanya further underlined how local enterprise partnerships share risks and streamline processes by leveraging public and private sectors, leading to more sustainable and effective energy solutions. Speaking during the same panel, Saidi Banda from Malawi highlighted how a balanced approach between high-risk and low-risk Productive Use of Energy (PUE) initiatives helps tackle challenges with equipment upkeep and market stability, whilst Roger Ouedraogo from Burkina Faso outlined how community involvement is important in rural electrification.
The EAIF covered a wide range of topical issues in the renewable energy space, ranging from empowering the public sector for sustainable minigrid markets, strategic planning for long-term energy access and enabling scale through policy regulation and financing, amongst a host of other salient issues relating to rural electrification and clean energy use. The event also presented a series of interaction, networking and matchmaking opportunities. It took attendees through a 3D immersive virtual reality site visit to Nsambaya, Uganda, where INSENSUS showed them how it is used to develop business models and technologies for future solar minigrids through innovative business models to promote Sustainable Development Goal 7 for Affordable and Clean Energy.
The AMP also leveraged the platform and undertook its second in-person Community Of Practice gathering as a platform for knowledge sharing, problem-solving and peer learning. Speaking on the sidelines of the event, the European Union’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Jan Sadek, outlined how the forum was a springboard for action and innovation, serving as a powerful catalyst for progress in the energy sector. He further highlighted how the EU-Africa Global Gateway Investment Package had allocated EUR 150 billion to Africa for six years, from 2021 to 2027, reinforcing its strong collaboration with key public and private stakeholders. The EAIF celebrated its 10th anniversary at this year’s edition, harnessing the momentum of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy and the newly launched Mission 300 Initiative to drive major investment commitments in the sector. The World Bank also announced plans to invest up to USD 30 billion in energy generation and access across Africa by 2030.
The EAIF is a top annual investment event for the renewable electrification sector, fostering business investor partnerships for sustainable electricity access, decarbonisation, economic growth and fighting against climate change. The Alliance for Rural Electrification organised the event, which the EU co-hosted through its Global Gateway Initiative. It is also supported by GET.invest, a European programme that mobilises investment in renewable energy. The 2025 edition attracted over 1,000 participants, both in person and online.