“We will electrify Africa.” That was Barack Obama’s proud – and literal – vow when he stopped in Tanzania and announced his new project called Power Africa, meant to expand electricity coverage in sub-Saharan Africa. However, its projected outlay of $7 billion is hardly an electrifying answer to China’s $20 billion commitment to Africa made in March this year. Japan upped the ante with a $32 billion commitment, spread over five years. Obama’s gift also compares poorly with Africa’s own efforts. The Lamu port and accompanying infrastructure (LAPPSET) will cost $23 billion overall. Ethiopia’s Renaissance dam will cost $4.7 billion. It will generate 6,000MW, more than half what Obama’s Power Africa dream will produce.
Posted on: Sat, 06 Jul 2013 20:05:19 +0000
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