What is Watts Up Africa?

A Pan-African movement championing equitable investments and pioneering approaches to clean energy access. The campaign seeks to empower communities in every corner of the continent, foster energy sovereignty, and drive a just transition to 100% renewable energy systems.

Over 600 million people, predominantly living in sub-Saharan Africa, lack access to electricity, resulting in an electrification rate of only 48% in the region. This stark reality highlights the urgency for campaigns like Watts Up Africa, which seeks to address the growing demand for sustainable, community-driven energy solutions. The need is further underscored by Africa’s share of global power supply investments, which is a mere 2-3%, leaving millions of people without the energy required for basic needs and economic development.

Over 600 million people, predominantly living in sub-Saharan Africa, lack access to electricity, resulting in an electrification rate of only 48% in the region. This stark reality highlights the urgency for campaigns like Watts Up Africa, which seeks to address the growing demand for sustainable, community-driven energy solutions. The need is further underscored by Africa’s share of global power supply investments, which is a mere 2-3%, leaving millions of people without the energy required for basic needs and economic development.

Key Issues

Energy Poverty

Millions of Africans still lack electricity.

Climate Injustice

Africa contributes the least to global emissions but suffers the most.

Debt & Dependency

Africa is being locked into debt-inducing export-driven models

False Solutions

Gas and hydrogen are distractions, not real solutions.

What are our partners saying

Watts Up Africa is an indispensable force in championing the renewable energy revolution across the continent. By uniting innovation, collaboration, and opportunity, it lights the path to a sustainable and prosperous future for Africa.”

– Eddie, Carolina Eco Green Economy

“Watts Up Africa is more than a campaign – it is a call to reclaim Africa’s energy future from the grip of false solutions. In a world where shifting geopolitics dictate energy choices, we must remain vigilant against misinformation that locks us into generational cycles of fossil fuel dependency. While investments from the US and its allies pour into extractive industries, burdening Africans with debt and climate devastation, our vast solar, wind, and geothermal resources remain underutilized. This movement demands real, people-cantered renewable energy solutions that serve African communities, not corporate profits. Africa has the power to lead the world in clean energy – if we us young people rise and take it.”

– Trust Chikodzo, Kick Polluters Out Network

“The African continent has a great opportunity to lead a just transition to 100% renewable energy, one that empowers communities, especially women and youth. Watts Up Africa campaign, emphasises the need for multilateral development banks (MDBs) to prioritise quality investments, and grants-based funding and concessional finance to support renewable energy development for African people.”

– Khulekani Magwaza, Recourse

“Watts Up Africa is a vital platform for accelerating the renewable energy transition in Africa. By promoting sustainable solutions, it empowers communities, fosters economic growth, and combats climate change. Hope Givers Foundation fully supports this movement toward a greener and more sustainable future.”

– Steven Dereck Chinsendenji, Hope Givers Foundation 

“Watts Up Africa is a beacon of hope, driving the renewable energy Agenda across the continent by empowering communities, reducing emission and fostering sustainable development for brighter future”

– Flavian Wanzala, Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation Franciscan Africa (JPIC FA) 

“Renewable energy is minimally progressive in Africa, and Watts Up Africa is here at the right time to accelerate and sustain renewable energy agenda in Africa”

– Smith Nwokocha, Quest For Growth and Development Foundation 

The Solution: A Just and Renewable Future

Africa Can Lead the Green Energy Revolution

Solar mini-grids powering rural villages

Wind farms generating local jobs

Community-led energy cooperatives