Italy-Africa Summit Unveils €5billion Towards Renewable Energy, Migrant Cooperation
By Faridat Salifu
With a major investment plan of 5.5 billion euros, Italy and Africa have bolstered their connections, concentrating on renewable energy projects and working together on migration-related concerns.
At least 25 African leaders attended the initiative’s recent unveiling during the first-ever Italy-Africa Summit.
The ambitious sustainable development program put forth by Italy includes investments in key sectors such as education, healthcare, water, and sanitation, with a primary focus on establishing energy agreements for the coming years.
This partnership aims to provide economic opportunities to at least 25 African nations, while also seeking increased cooperation from African leaders in addressing migration challenges.
However, the partnership has faced criticism from certain quarters, with concerns raised about the potential exploitation of Africa’s natural resources.
Additionally, the environmental impact of the energy agreements has been a point of contention, particularly in light of the European Union’s push for clean energies.
This collaboration between Italy and Africa represents an effort to address energy challenges, particularly in the wake of the European gas supply shortage due to the conflict in Ukraine.
The partnership also highlights the involvement of Italian multinational company Eni in driving the “Mattei Plan”, revered after its founder and focused on renewable energy initiatives across the African continent.
The Italy-Africa partnership is a significant development in the realm of climate finance and exemplifies the growing trend of international cooperation to address global sustainability challenges.