Expert Highlights Energy Sector as Key to Revitalizing West Africa's Manufacturing Industry
Ajibola Akindele, Country President for West Africa at Schneider Electric, emphasizes the critical role of the energy sector in revitalizing the manufacturing industry across West Africa. In a report, Akindele outlines how energy availability, reliability, and efficiency are fundamental to industrial growth, digital infrastructure, and modern city development. Despite the region's ambitions, energy-related inefficiencies cost the economy billions annually. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aims to boost local production, but energy constraints remain a significant barrier. Akindele calls for integrated energy and industrial policies to enhance competitiveness and productivity.