CEC Urges New Financing Models and Partnerships to Power Africa’s Energy Future
Copperbelt Energy Corporation PLC (CEC) has called for strategic partnerships and innovative financing mechanisms to accelerate energy infrastructure development across Africa, cautioning that traditional risk models are no longer adequate to meet the continent’s growing power needs.
Speaking at the 2025 Africa Energy Forum (AEF) in Cape Town, South Africa, CEC Chief Financial Officer Mutale Mukuka stressed the importance of cross-sector collaboration.
He emphasized that sustainable progress in Africa’s energy sector hinges on deeper cooperation among governments, utilities, financiers, Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractors, and local communities.
“Governments alone cannot shoulder the level of investment needed,” Mukuka said during a panel discussion titled Breaking the Barriers for Regional Transmission.
“Private capital must play a greater role, but to achieve that, risk allocation models must evolve to reflect the realities of Africa’s dynamic energy landscape.”
He underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement, stating that inclusive community participation is not only socially necessary but also serves as a vital safeguard for project success. “It’s a form of project insurance,” Mukuka noted.
Mukuka also urged financiers and development institutions to update their risk frameworks to unlock meaningful investment. “Clinging to outdated financial structures could stall vital energy projects across the continent,” he warned.
CEC’s participation at the AEF reflects its broader mission to drive sustainable industrialization and foster inclusive regional growth.
The company reaffirmed its commitment to forming partnerships that champion policy innovation, infrastructure resilience, and community empowerment across Africa.
