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 The Forum of Energy Ministers
in Africa (FEMA) was established in 2005 to provide
political leadership, policy direction and advocacy to
increase access, better utilization and management of energy
resources for the sustainable social and economic
development of Africa.
MANDATE:
The objectives of
FEMA are in line with the objectives of the African Union
and NEPAD and aim to contribute to the eradication of
poverty and place African countries individually and
collectively at the path of sustainable growth and
development. Designed as a member-driven network, the FEMA
work plan 2005-2008 aims at strengthening FEMA institutional
arrangements, informing international advocacy and promoting
regional inter-governmental dialogue. The main objective of
the work plan 2005 -2008 is to assist African States and
sub-regional organisations to contribute to the achievement
of the Millennium Development Goals, the Johannesburg Summit
targets and the Bonn Renewables 2004 Political Declaration
and International Action Plan (IAP) with respect to energy.
Intermediate objectives under the work plan are to:
raise the profile of the energy sector in national and
regional planning to reflect its central role in achieving
the Millennium Development Goals;
develop a coherent energy strategy for Africa, including
re-strategizing in order to increase modern energy supply
and access;
promote a common approach expressed through specific,
national and regional projects of benefit to Sub-Saharan
African countries;
speak with a common voice and collectively advocate for the
financing of regional projects; and
promote interconnectivity, and develop common technical
standards and codes of conduct.
In September 2005, FEMA Chair
announcing plans to ensure that at least 50% of Africa’s
poor have access to sustainable modern energy services and
technologies by 2015, resulting in significant improvements
in the environment they depend on for their livelihoods – as
well as improving health and education services.
STRUCTURE: FEMA is chaired by the
Ugandan Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Daudi
Migereko. The interim secretariat is hosted by the Ugandan
Ministry of Energy. FEMA has been positively received by
many development partners as a needed Forum to voice African
energy concerns. Several development institutions operating
within the African Energy sector have agreed to support the
new Forum with more than words. ESMAP is contributing
funding for a senior advisor to be posted in the secretariat
in Kampala. The German Development Cooperation (GTZ) has
supported the establishment of the new Secretariat office. |
