SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

Workers at a car assembling factory.

UNCTAD report emphasizes the need to foster domestic value-addition to critical minerals in producing developing countries to increase supply chains resilience, and sustainability as evidenced in Democratic Republic of Congo.

UNOPS is partnering with the World Bank to improve energy access and reduce reliance on fossil fuels at five hospitals across Haiti.

A background of a wind turbine farm in view of a handshake.

UNCTAD reports that a significant increase in investment in sustainable energy systems in developing countries is crucial for the world to reach climate goals by 2030.

portait photo against a blue background

“Energy is magic. As simple as that. As we speak, Africa is a dark continent … 600 million people without electricity. But Africa is all energy sources. So, this is a paradox that needs to be broken.”

Cristina Duarte always brings great passion to any task she takes on. Now Under-Secretary-General and Special Adviser on Africa, she works tirelessly to help the continent imagine a better tomorrow, one which not only meets its people’s needs, but also fulfills their dreams.

“The solutions for our challenges are all in Africa. You name it: Energy, Africa, financing for development, Africa, food insecurity, Africa. But for some reason, we still look outside of Africa for those solutions. Why?”

Born to an activist father who was integral to independence movements across Lusophone Africa, Cristina grew up instilled with Pan-African values. In this episode, the former finance minister reflects on her role in reforming Cabo Verde’s economy, on bringing power to remote villages, and how one chance encounter changed her mind about marriage.

Photo credit: ©IFAD/Daniele Bianchi

Iman Hadi poses for a picture next to rows of solar panels.

A Yemeni woman improves lives and changes minds

As part of efforts to strengthen the electricity supply system in Gaza, UNOPS with funding from the government of Japan has installed solar photovoltaic systems for 188 households.