In 2026, Africa’s energy industry learned to brace for the unexpected. War in the Middle East and the ensuing closure of the Strait of Hormuz created chaos in global energy markets. Even if Africa’s upstream oil and gas producers enjoyed a brief windfall, the disruption created pain across the energy value chain. The cost of petroleum products soared for consumers and businesses alike, exposing how vulnerable Africa’s energy systems remain to external factors.

The African Energy Commission (AFREC), as the African Union’s specialised energy agency, has developed a Comprehensive Capacity Building Programme to address critical skills and knowledge gaps in Africa’s energy sector. Based on continent-wide assessments, surveys, and expert analysis, the Programme identifies priority areas such as energy efficiency, renewable integration, regulatory frameworks, financing, and electricity infrastructure.