Africa has the potential to resolve developmental challenges through renewable energy by pursuing a pathway of climate-positive growth.

The former Nigerian Vice President, Professor Yemi Osibanjo, states that Africa's low carbon footprint can be an advantage in developing green fuel and clean energy.

Africa has 60% of the world's renewable energy potential.

By pursuing an industrialization pathway focusing on renewable energy, Africa could become the first green civilization hub in the world.

This can be achieved through the deployment of the fastest workforce and the utilisation of the continent's massive natural resources, such as land and minerals.

Professor Osibanjo, who was speaking at the 2023 UNDP cluster meeting, states that this will also help achieve economic growth and development for the continent without increasing emissions.

"If Africa processed the bauxite that we mine today and we have 25% of the world's production using renewable energy, we would save the world three hundred and 35 million metric tonnes of carbon emissions, which is 1% annually of carbon emissions. That is also creating 20,000 jobs and US$37 billion annually."

Professor Osibanjo stressed that deploying renewable resources could provide power for the whole continent, benefiting over 600 million people who are currently without electricity.

For climate-positive growth to occur, Professor Osibanjo advised African nations to develop and implement supporting legislation and policies around climate, as well as collectively provide appropriate and sufficient investment and finance, among others.