By Babatunji Wusu| The ECOWAS Parliament is set to hold a five-day delocalised joint committee meeting in Dakar, Senegal, from June 15 to 19, 2026, to advance discussions on improving electricity access across rural communities in West Africa through renewable energy solutions.
The gathering will bring together parliamentarians, government officials, development partners, private sector representatives, civil society groups and energy experts to explore practical strategies for expanding sustainable power supply in underserved areas throughout the region.
According to a statement issued by the Parliament’s Chief Communication Officer, Uchenna Duru-Nwaotule, the meeting will focus on the theme: “Harnessing Renewable Energy for Rural Electrification and Empowerment of Rural Economies in the ECOWAS Region: The Role of the ECOWAS Parliament.”
The event is being organised jointly by the Parliament’s Committees on Energy and Mines, Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources, and Infrastructure under the Sixth Legislature.
The rural electrification initiative comes at a time when millions of people across West Africa still lack dependable electricity despite progress recorded in some parts of the sub-region. ECOWAS believes improved access to power is essential for boosting agricultural production, healthcare services, education, digital inclusion and economic growth.
During the meeting, participants will examine ways to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy technologies, including solar mini-grids, hybrid power systems and stand-alone solar installations. Discussions will also assess the region’s vast solar and hydropower resources and identify opportunities to attract greater investment into the sector.
The lawmakers will review key regional energy frameworks and evaluate ongoing efforts aimed at achieving universal access to affordable and sustainable energy by 2030.
As part of the programme, delegates will visit a renewable energy project in Senegal to observe firsthand how rural electrification initiative programmes are transforming communities, supporting businesses and creating opportunities for women and young people.
At the conclusion of the meeting, participants are expected to adopt recommendations designed to strengthen renewable energy development and expand electricity access across the ECOWAS region.
