The African Development Bank (AfDB) has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an enabling environment for investment, strengthening investor confidence, and unlocking Africa’s vast energy potential to accelerate universal energy access.
Speaking at the launch of the Information Management System (IMS) for the Regional Association of Energy Regulators for Eastern and Southern Africa (PAERESA), AfDB Manager for Energy Policy, Regulations, and Statistics Division, Kambanda Callixte, described the initiative as a transformative step.
He noted that this is the first of four regional regulatory harmonization projects supported by AfDB under the Regional Public Goods window to be completed.
Mr. Callixte expressed optimism that the successful implementation of this project would serve as a catalyst for similar initiatives in SADC, ECOWAS, and beyond.
Meanwhile, PAERESA Chairperson and Energy Regulation Board (ERB) Director General, Elijah Sichone, emphasized that the IMS will empower regulators and utilities with a robust platform to monitor performance against key indicators, promote transparency, and enhance data-driven decision-making.
“The IMS embodies a commitment to creating a transparent, data-driven, and harmonized regulatory environment that supports investment and drives economic growth,” Mr. Sichone stated.
Similarly, COMESA Assistant Secretary General for Programs, Dr. Mohamed Kadah, speaking on behalf of COMESA Secretary General Chileshe Kapwepwe, highlighted that the IMS will not only track progress against key performance indicators but also establish a platform for transparent and consistent reporting across the region.
Dr. Kadah described the initiative as a game-changer in promoting regional harmonization, accountability, and data-driven decision-making, ultimately fostering an environment conducive to regional energy trade, integration, and investment.
By Christabel Kamunu
