Mission 300 Brings Electricity to 50 Million Africans

Launched in 2024, Mission 300 brings together governments, development institutions, private investors and philanthropic organisations to accelerate electrification across the continent.

A major milestone has been achieved in Africa's push for universal energy access, with Mission 300 successfully connecting more than 50 million people to electricity across 40 countries. The announcement was made jointly by the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank Group, marking significant progress toward the initiative's ambitious target of providing electricity access to 300 million people by 2030.

Launched in 2024, Mission 300 brings together governments, development institutions, private investors and philanthropic organisations to accelerate electrification across the continent. The initiative focuses on strengthening the entire energy value chain, from power generation and transmission networks to last-mile household connections.

Electrification Pace Accelerates Across Africa

Mission 300 is now delivering electricity access at nearly twice the pace recorded when the initiative began. The programme has driven improvements in both grid-connected and off-grid energy solutions, helping households, businesses, schools and healthcare facilities gain access to reliable electricity. Tanzania has emerged as one of the standout examples, with 7.5 million people connected under the programme. The country has achieved electrification rates five times higher than its previous annual average, supported by increased investments and policy reforms.

Ethiopia has connected 4.6 million people through initiatives that made electricity connections more affordable and accessible. In Nigeria, more than 4.5 million people have gained access to power through private sector-led projects backed by public financing and policy support. The initiative's success has been driven by stronger coordination among governments, development partners and investors, creating a unified approach to tackling energy access challenges.

Billions Invested in Energy Expansion

To support the programme, the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank Group have committed nearly $15 billion in financing. An additional $4.5 billion has been mobilised through co-financing arrangements, while development partners have pledged more than $7 billion to support Africa's energy sector.

Mission 300 has also introduced mechanisms aimed at reducing risks for private investors. Through grants, guarantees and concessional financing, the initiative is encouraging companies to invest in communities that were previously considered commercially challenging.

This approach is helping create viable markets for energy providers while expanding access to underserved regions.

National Energy Compacts Drive Reform

A key pillar of Mission 300 is the development of National Energy Compacts, country-led plans designed to strengthen energy systems and attract investment. So far, 30 countries have launched these compacts, focusing on affordable power generation, renewable energy expansion, regional integration and increased private sector participation.

Several additional countries, including Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic, Djibouti, Gabon, Rwanda and Uganda, are expected to launch their compacts during the Africa Energy Forum this week.

World Bank Group President Ajay Banga described the achievement as evidence of what coordinated action can deliver, noting that electricity access creates opportunities for jobs, education, healthcare and economic growth.

African Development Bank Group President Sidi Ould Tah said the milestone should serve as a foundation for even faster progress, stressing the importance of expanding access to support food security, healthcare services and inclusive development.

As Africa prepares for a rapidly growing population and workforce, Mission 300 is increasingly being viewed as a key driver of economic transformation, helping millions gain access to opportunities powered by reliable electricity.