The Geopolitics of Renewable Energy Transition in Eastern Africa

Abstract

This paper focuses on the nexus between geopolitics and renewable energy in Eastern Africa. It sets out to explore the potential geopolitical implications of the transition to renewable energy in the region. The authors observe that there is increasing attention to renewable energy sources (wind, solar, hydro, geothermal, etc.) in the region with potential social, political and economic impacts. Existing literature on the region has focused on the relationship between energy and conflict as well as challenges in accessing energy. However, there is a gap in the literature, theory, and systematic framework with regard to the implications of renewable energy transition for the geopolitics in the region. The authors analyze existing academic publications, government reports, and other relevant publications to draw the relationship between geopolitics and renewable energy transition in the region. The study concludes that the geopolitical benefits of renewable energy in the region far outweigh the risks, and recommends increased adoption of renewable energy given the region’s vast resources, which can support the increased renewable energy transition and contribute to the fight against climate change.