Africa’s population is expected to double by 2050, as a result the continents energy demand is expected to increase tremendously in the next two decades. Despite possessing 8% of the world's proven natural gas reserves, more than 700 million Africans lack access to energy and clean cooking fuels.

In accordance with the Paris Agreement, the transition away from fossil fuels has been at the centre of global climate conversation. Despite contributing the least to global warming and emitting the lowest greenhouse gases, Africa is the most vulnerable to climate change. Given that African economies are heavily dependent on oil and gas export revenues, fossil fuels will maintain a prominent role in the region's energy mix. While African governments have demonstrated ambition in playing a crucial role in global efforts to combat climate change, Africa must take a pragmatic approach that assures a gradual shift from fossil fuels to clean energy sources.

Africa’s energy potential, particularly renewable energy and natural gas is enormous, but only a fraction of it is currently being realised. Natural gas has the potential to play a significant role in eradicating energy poverty and increasing access to clean, affordable and reliable energy supplies, as well as enabling a just energy transition. While Africa’s gas has the ability to meet growing domestic energy needs and also function as a natural gas trading hub for global markets, most African countries lack access to infrastructure that would allow them to benefit economically from their natural gas resources.

The inaugural EGYPES 2024 Africa Dialogue Conference will bring together key African stakeholders including top government officials, financial institutions, economists and energy thought leaders to discuss the most pressing challenges related to policies, regulations, natural gas infrastructure development, and how Africa can leverage its rich energy resources to drive the continent towards a more prosperous and sustainable energy future.