Israel has signed an agreement to join the US-led Power Africa Initiative in Jerusalem on 4 December. The agreement was signed between the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Power Africa, led by USAID, aims to connect 60 million African households to the electricity grid, and add 30,000 MW to power installed in Africa by 2030. Israel said that it has joined the programme as part of its campaign to strengthen economic ties and cooperation with African countries. Israel said that the agreement will create numerous business opportunities for Israeli companies, and these companies will be given priority in African projects.
Power Africa comprises 12 US Government departments and agencies, and includes over 140 public-private sector partners, and more than 130 private sector companies. The US Government has so far distributed around $500 million and made over $2.6 billion in financial commitments towards Power Africa’s goals.