Clean energy in Africa moves into implementation
Two initiatives launched during Italy’s G7 Presidency are now entering their operational phase, marking a concrete step in the country’s commitment to promote clean energy in Africa. The projects are Energy for Growth in Africa and the Adaptation Accelerator Hub, both developed in collaboration with the Rome-based UNDP Centre.
Italy’s Minister for the Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, presented the initiatives at the Turin International Book Fair, stressing the importance of an integrated approach that links the energy transition with climate adaptation.
Concrete projects to advance clean energy in Africa
“Clean energy and adaptation are complementary pillars of Italy’s tangible commitment to the global challenge of climate change,” Pichetto said. Through Energy for Growth in Africa, Italy is supporting Zambia’s green growth via the recently inaugurated Cooma Solar Project.
The initiative aims to mobilise public and private investment to help close the energy access gap across the continent, strengthening the role of clean energy in Africa as a driver of development, including in sub-Saharan regions.
In parallel, the Adaptation Accelerator Hub provides technical assistance to partner countries to turn climate strategies into bankable projects. Working with Ethiopia, Italy is supporting the development of a national adaptation strategy focused on climate-resilient agriculture and water resource management.
“The synergy with UNDP represents a virtuous model of international cooperation for sustainable development,” Pichetto Fratin said, underlining Italy’s commitment to making G7 decisions operational ahead of COP30.
Youth4Climate strengthens youth leadership
The future of climate diplomacy was also central to the discussion. Youth4Climate, co-led by Italy and UNDP, will receive increased financial support for the 2025 Call for Solutions, backing 50 new youth-led projects worldwide.
So far, the initiative has supported more than 100 projects in emerging economies such as India and Colombia. Through its digital platform and new app, Youth4Climate now brings together a global community of over 25,000 young people.
“Engaging younger generations is essential to building credible, shared and transformative climate action,” the minister said.
In 2024, the G7 recognised Youth4Climate as a reference model for youth inclusion in climate policymaking. The initiative continues to expand under the guidance of the Rome-based United Nations Development Programme Centre, a strategic hub for joint programmes on energy, climate finance and innovation.
With an eye on COP30, the pathway aims to strengthen intergenerational cooperation and reinforce Italy’s role as a credible partner in advancing clean energy in Africa and beyond.
For further information on the Italy-UNDP partnership, visit the United Nations Development Programme website in Rome.