African states must defend the use of fossil fuels at the soon starting COP27, in Egypt, African Energy Chamber’s NJ Ayuk has said.
In an op-ed, Ayuk said gas had a critical role to play in providing access to power.
“I am going to COP27 because I believe if Africa is not on the table it will be on the menu,” he wrote.
Rich countries’ green plans ignore the opportunity for gas to deliver “life-changing prosperity” on the continent. “It ignores the sustainable, logical path we’re proposing, which is using our resources, natural gas in particular, to help us meet current needs and to generate revenue that can help pay for our transition to renewables.”
Ayuk does not reject the idea of climate change, allowing that the impact is already being felt. Preventing states in Africa from developing their natural resources is unjust, he argues. This is particularly true when North America and Europe are making plans for their own domestic resources.
Green colonialism
The African Energy Chamber (AEC) executive chairman noted US climate activist Bill McKibben’s opposition to Uganda’s plans in Lake Albert.
“McKibben has taken aim at a pipeline that will transport just 210,000 barrels of oil per day,” Ayuk said. “That’s roughly equivalent to 1.8% of the total output of the US, but he claims it must be stopped, or everything falls apart.”
The op-ed goes on to say the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) may “actually be a lifeline”.
Does developing fossil fuel projects in Africa doom the world’s “good intentions and net zero ambitions? Or is this an example of ‘green colonialism?’” Ayuk continues.
African leaders at COP27 should provide a “unified voice and strategy” for the continent’s energy transition. For Ayuk, oil and gas has a “critical role” in helping reach net zero emissions.
COP27 begins on November 6, at the Egyptian resort of Sharm El Sheikh.
At previous COPs, rich countries have made commitments to provide $100 billion of financing to help emerging economies. This money has not been forthcoming.