Russia’s Energy Minister Says Africa Needs Clear Strategies to Unlock Its Power Potential

By Yamikani Simutowe in Moscow, Russia

Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation, Yevgeny Tsivilyov, says Africa has enormous potential, but many regions still face serious challenges due to the absence of concrete strategic documents and detailed planning for the development of the energy sector.

Tsivilyov noted that many plans exist only on paper and are not fully implemented, particularly in the areas of electricity generation and distribution.

He made these remarks while addressing the media at the Economic and Humanitarian Forum in Moscow on Wednesday, 28 October 2026.

Tsivilyov further stated that another major challenge is the creation of logistics infrastructure across African territories. This includes the development of hydrogen production, the establishment of consumer networks, and the expansion of industrial zones.

The Minister of Energy stated that they are proposing several interconnected areas of collaboration, including the development of specific strategic and tactical planning documents designed to outline and balance electricity demand and meet it using both local and transit‑based energy sources.

“Africa needs to develop hydrogen production and build systems that support the growth of the energy sector. This requires large capacities and, of course, proper direction and the development of energy technologies. We must also consider hydropower as an instrument of electrical energy production,” he said.

The Russian Minister of Energy added that it is also important to develop storage and management systems for energy sources.

“Transport infrastructure must be improved so that programs for water, energy balance, and resource distribution can be implemented. Many African countries still rely on traditional sources such as gas, coal, and other outdated energy resources,” he explained.

He emphasized the need for the creation of electrical networks and political‑technical transport systems that will allow energy to reach every consumer across African territories.

Tsivilyov noted that this requires building systems for proper electrical energy management and ensuring the stable operation of power plants.

“Modern technologies, including those from the Russian Federation, can play a significant role.

“Another important task is the training of specialists from African countries. We must prepare professionals who can operate modern technologies. We plan to do this using Russian training methods — engineering schools and technical programs,” he stated.

He said this is essential because trained specialists are able to make effective decisions, solve emerging problems, and implement real plans for the development of African countries.

Tsivilyov added that the development of the energy sector will strengthen cooperation among African states.

He therefore stressed the need for the creation of energy corridors, gasification projects, and joint integration initiatives, saying that the establishment of shared systems will help countries develop hydrogen, coal, and other energy resources.

“This integration will unite African countries,” he said.

He added, “This is not only about economic development — it also raises the level of education and creates technological sovereignty across African territories. It strengthens African countries and supports their long‑term development.”

He concluded by stating that they are launching a strong energy program already supported by Ministers of Energy from BRICS and Asian countries. This cooperation, he said, allows them to share technologies, financial instruments, and build relationships based on mutual benefit.

“This reflects the principles of modern energy development,” he said.

The Economic and Humanitarian Forum and the third Russia – Africa has attracted representatives of nearly 50 countries, all looking for opportunities and partnerships with Moscow in various sectors.