Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella
Development Economist | Founder & CEO, The Energy Nexus Network (TENN) | Chair, Energy Governance Coordination Group, Sierra Leone Government
Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella is a distinguished development economist and agricultural expert with over 30 years of experience in international development. He has held significant roles, including serving as the United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All, as well as Director-General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
In Sierra Leone, Dr. Yumkella has been instrumental in addressing climate change, renewable energy, and food security. He served as a Member of Parliament and chaired the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security under President Julius Maada Bio’s administration.
In August 2024, President Bio appointed Dr. Yumkella as the Chair of the Energy Governance Coordination Group (EGCG), a body established to enhance coordination and effectiveness within Sierra Leone’s energy sector. The EGCG focuses on ensuring coherence and effective information sharing among key entities, including the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC), the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), and the Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (EWRC).
Dr. Yumkella is also the founder and CEO of The Energy Nexus Network (TENN), a regional hub dedicated to sustainable energy solutions. His extensive career reflects a deep commitment to sustainable development and energy access, making him a prominent figure in both national and international efforts to promote sustainable energy and economic growth.
Panelist: Renewable Energy in Africa - Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities
Description
This session delves into the evolving landscape of renewable energy in Africa, highlighting the significant trends that are shaping the sector. As Africa strives for sustainable development, renewable energy stands as a critical component in achieving energy security and environmental sustainability. The discussion will cover the technological advancements, policy dynamics, and investment opportunities that are driving the renewable energy boom across the continent.
Objective
Examine Key Trends: Explore current and emerging trends in renewable energy within Africa, such as the rapid growth of solar power installations, the expansion of wind energy projects, and the innovative use of bioenergy resources.
Identify Challenges: Address the barriers to renewable energy adoption, including financial constraints, infrastructural deficits, and regulatory uncertainties that hinder large-scale implementation.
Highlight Opportunities: Outline the opportunities that renewable energy presents for economic diversification, job creation, and energy access, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
Showcase Benefits: Illustrate the environmental and economic benefits of transitioning to renewable energy, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions, enhanced energy independence, and increased resilience against energy price volatility.
Expected Outcome
Provide participants with insights into how they can engage with and benefit from the renewable energy sector, including guidance on entering the market, influencing policy, and promoting sustainable practices within their communities.