Johannesburg – The African Energy Chamber (AEC) has responded to an “attack” from independent researcher and activist Richard Worthington whom it accused of “hateful bashing”.
In a recent critique, Worthington argues that the AEC promotes self-serving narratives that prioritise fossil fuel exploitation under the guise of benefiting Africa.
He says that these narratives do not address the root causes of Africa’s energy crisis and instead perpetuate dependency on fossil fuels.
Worthington’s critique focuses on the need for a shift toward sustainable renewable solutions to tackle energy shortages in Africa.
Responding to Worthington’s criticism, the AEC said in a statement at the weekend that he, “has turned to slander to get a headline, publishing an attack article against the AEC (www.EnergyChamber.org) and its annual event, African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy (https://AECWeek.com)”.
The AEC added: “According to him, it is time to denounce the self-serving narratives of opportunists demanding – in the name of the poor – favorable finance to keep fossil fuel exploitation profitable.
“Rather than using his voice to provide a piece of literature that explores the reasons why Africa still faces such a deeply entrenched energy crisis, Worthington chose instead to attack the very organisation that is trying to solve this challenge.”
The AEC said in its efforts to facilitate investment, promote Africa’s energy narrative, and drive impactful development across the continent it has been the target of many hits over the years.
“This, however, is nothing compared to what goes on every day in Africa, where over 600 million people still lack access to electricity,” the AEC said.
“This is nothing compared to the number of people who remain in the dark, the potential that goes unnoticed, and the futures of many Africans that remain uncertain.
“The AEC, which does in fact serve as the voice of the African energy sector, will continue taking hits, just as we will continue to do everything we can to make energy poverty history.
“Such attacks always emerge when we are in proximity of hosting Africa’s premier event for the energy industry, which is designed to help unite African energy stakeholders with global investors to navigate industry’s most pressing challenges.”
The AEC said it was not about keeping fossil fuel exploitation profitable – it was about finally using these profits in Africa.
“What Worthington fails to mention, is that Africa’s fossil fuels have – for decades – only been profitable for Western companies and nations.
“Africa has not had the benefit of using its resources to fuel its development, but rather, has been left in the dark while the rest of the world transforms.
“At a time when Africa is finally making strides to utilise its resources for its own development, ‘activists’ such as Worthington feel that this approach is one of the past,” the AEC said.
“What other alternative does he propose?
“None. Instead, he states that the continent must let go of what might have been.
“By that logic, Africa should be content with remaining poor, in the dark and undeveloped, all in the name of climate change.”
The AEC said it was sad to see someone “say anything” to make headlines.
“It is also sad to see someone attack an industry that promises to do more than just develop Africa, but transform it through inclusive business opportunities, widespread infrastructure growth and pan-economic investment,” the AEC said.
“The recent attack by Richard Worthington is just one of the many the AEC receives against people and institutions who are committed to leaving Africa in the dark.
“However, we will not be swayed. We won’t let this brazen attack against Africa hinder us from achieving our goals – to make energy poverty history.
“Let us make one thing clear: we are not attached to anticipated revenues; we are wholly committed to giving Africa the chance to do what its Western counterparts have done – develop.”
The AEC insists fossil fuels will do just that.
“Renewable energy, hydrogen, and alternative fuels will also do that, which is why we have and will continue to be strong advocates for a just transition, one in which every resource available on this continent is monetised in an integrated manner,” the AEC said.
“We are not against ESG; we are against the notion that we have to follow a Western approach to developing.
“Through platforms such as AEW: Invest in African Energy, we outline clear pathways to achieving dual goals of lowering emissions while enhancing energy security.
“We explore the biggest challenges the continent faces and propose solutions to address them.
“We sign deals, we foster collaboration, and mobilise investment in communities and projects.
“We look forward to seeing the entire industry at AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024 and invite the media to participate.”
The AEC added: “Then they will they realise that this is not a platform for grand-standing and generalised statements.
“Rather, this is a movement to make energy poverty history.”
The AEC said this was a chance to sign deals and drive impactful projects forward – every project; not just oil and gas but infrastructure, power generation, hydrogen and so much more.
“This is an opportunity to change the fate of Africa and chart a new path of development built on integration, inclusivity, and a pro-African mindset. See you in Cape Town on 4 November 2024,” the AEC said.
