Advancing Power Africa to Expand Electricity in Sub-Saharan Africa
Nov 8, 2016
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Nov 3, 2016
Published on: Nov 8, 2016
Nov 8, 2016
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Nov 3, 2016
Published on: Nov 8, 2016
Summary
Establishes a government team to help bring electricity to 60 million new homes and businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.
What problem does this solve?
Many people in Sub-Saharan Africa live without electricity, which hurts economic growth and quality of life. This order creates a special team to coordinate U.S. government efforts to build power plants and connect more homes.
What does this order do?
Establishes the Power Africa Working Group
Creates a new team with members from many U.S. agencies to coordinate efforts to expand electricity in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Appoints USAID as the lead agency
Makes the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) the main agency in charge of the Power Africa initiative.
Sets clear goals for power expansion
Aims to add 30,000 megawatts of power and connect 60 million new homes and businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.
Creates a new coordinator position
Establishes the position of Coordinator for Power Africa within USAID to lead the initiative.
Encourages using local companies
Directs U.S. agencies to help local and regional African companies take part in energy projects.
Who does this affect?
- Residents of Sub-Saharan Africa
- U.S. Government Agencies
- Energy Sector Companies
What is the real world impact?
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Coordinates U.S. efforts in Africa
Creates a single working group from many different government agencies to make sure everyone is working together on the Power Africa initiative, avoiding wasted effort and money.
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Promotes economic growth and stability
Helps African nations develop their economies by providing reliable power. This can create new markets for U.S. companies and promote stable governments.
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Strengthens U.S. influence abroad
Increases U.S. presence and goodwill in Africa through major infrastructure projects. This can serve as a diplomatic tool to build alliances and counter the influence of other global powers in the region.
When does this start?
This order becomes effective on November 3, 2016.