The World Bank Group has announced a commitment of $8.2 billion to expand electricity access across Sub-Saharan Africa, in a major effort to address one of the region’s most pressing development challenges, where nearly 600 million people still lack access to power.
The funding supports a large scale initiative known as “Mission 300”, which is being implemented in partnership with the African Development Bank Group. The programme aims to connect 300 million people to electricity by 2030, with the World Bank targeting 250 million connections and the African Development Bank expected to deliver 50 million.
According to the World Bank, the initiative has already attracted an additional $1.2 billion in financing, with more than 150 projects underway across over 40 countries in the region. The programme combines public and private sector investment to accelerate infrastructure development and energy reforms.
Despite progress in recent years, lack of reliable electricity continues to hinder economic growth across Sub-Saharan Africa. Many communities still face limited access to power, affecting healthcare delivery, education, agricultural productivity, and business operations.
World Bank President Ajay Banga described electricity as the foundation for jobs and economic opportunity, noting that the initiative goes beyond simple connection targets. He emphasized that the programme is designed to strengthen power utilities, reduce costs, and attract private investment into the energy sector.
At the centre of Mission 300 are National Energy Compacts, which are country led reform frameworks aimed at improving energy policy, enhancing utility performance, and unlocking new investment opportunities. The programme also focuses on regional power trade and de risking strategies to encourage private sector participation.
African Development Bank President Sidi Tah highlighted the broader economic impact, stating that reliable electricity is essential for small businesses, agro processing, digital services, and industrial development. He noted that access to power can significantly improve livelihoods and job creation opportunities across the continent.
The initiative is also expected to improve household welfare by supporting better healthcare, education, and living conditions through reliable electricity supply.
The World Bank said connection rates under the programme are currently progressing at a pace significantly faster than previous efforts, signaling growing momentum in Africa’s push toward universal electricity access.
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