This initiative, part of the broader Mission 300—a joint AfDB–World Bank effort—aims to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030.

What Are National Energy Compacts?

Energy Compacts are national strategies where governments outline their plans to expand electricity access, strengthen power sectors, and attract investment. Over the past year, dozens of African nations have launched these compacts, backed by robust political will and support from development partners.

AESTAP Mission 300 Phase II: From Plans to Power

The newly approved project, AESTAP Mission 300 Phase II, will deliver direct technical support to 13 African countries over the next 24 months. The beneficiaries include Chad, Gabon, Tanzania, Mauritania, DRC, Kenya, Nigeria, Madagascar, Ethiopia, Malawi, Lesotho, Namibia, and Uganda.

Improving electricity regulations, planning, and tariffs to unlock investments.
Strengthening utilities for more reliable power delivery and reduced losses.
Enhancing data, research, and learning through tools like the Electricity Regulatory Index and regional energy forums.
Embedding expert advisers within national Compact Delivery and Monitoring Units (CDMUs) to coordinate reforms and track progress.

Building on Success: From Phase I to Phase II

This new phase follows the successful AESTAP Mission 300 Phase I, launched in December 2025 with a USD 1 million budget. Phase I focused on establishing and strengthening CDMUs—government teams responsible for coordinating energy reforms and monitoring progress. Phase II will now provide the technical expertise needed to turn plans into real-world electricity connections for homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses.

Collaboration and Impact

The project will be implemented in close coordination with the World Bank, national governments, and other development organizations to ensure a unified approach. According to Wale Shonibare, Director of Energy Financial Solutions, Policy and Regulation at the AfDB, “Countries have made bold commitments through their energy compacts. Now, through AESTAP Mission 300 Phase II, we are helping them implement those commitments so that more households, entrepreneurs, and communities actually get electricity.”

Conclusion: Lighting Up Africa

As Africa strives to achieve universal electricity access, the AfDB’s new technical assistance project under Mission 300 represents a critical milestone. By moving from planning to implementation, this initiative promises to transform millions of lives, drive economic growth, and foster sustainable development across the continent.

Translation AI assisted