By Business Insider Correspondent, St. Petersburg, Russia
Tanzania’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, has called for African countries to be given the freedom to generate energy using their own natural resources.
Dr. Biteko made the appeal during his address at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, currently taking place in Russia.
He emphasised that Africa needs a tailored approach to meet its energy access goals, especially in eliminating the widespread use of unsafe and polluting energy sources.
He noted that a significant portion of Africa’s population still lacks access to clean energy, and this must be addressed urgently.
“Africa has abundant energy resources – Tanzania alone has solar, hydropower, and natural gas potential. Yet, we face restrictions on using coal despite its availability, while large economies continue to utilise it,” Dr Biteko said.
He stressed that global energy frameworks must recognise contextual differences between countries.
“The existing system assumes all nations are equal, but that’s not the reality. Africa contributes only 3–4% of global emissions yet bears a disproportionate burden in the fight against climate change,” he added.
Dr Biteko argued that countries should be allowed to adopt their own energy pathways so long as they align with global efforts to reduce pollution and protect the environment.
Tanzania–Russia energy relations
Dr. Biteko highlighted the strong diplomatic relationship between Tanzania and Russia, urging that it be maintained on the basis of mutual respect and shared interests.
He said Russia’s support in skills transfer and capital investment in energy projects would be mutually beneficial.
He revealed that Tanzania is planning to generate around 120 megawatts of electricity from coal as part of its diversified energy strategy.
For his part, Russia Minister of Energy, Mr. Sergey Tsivilev, reaffirmed President Vladimir Putin’s commitment to strengthening global partnerships in addressing energy challenges.
Meanwhile, NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, called for deeper collaboration between African countries and Russia, particularly in ensuring Africa’s voice is heard in international forums.
He also urged the Russian government to facilitate greater investment by its companies in Africa’s energy sector.
Ayuk praised Tanzania for the progress made in energy infrastructure and policy, encouraging other African nations to draw lessons from both Tanzania’s and Russia’s successes. The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum is being attended by representatives from approximately 140 countries, and energy security, access, and investment are among the key themes of the 2025 edition.
