The second edition of the Ifriqiya Energy Hub (IEH) has commenced in Tunis, bringing together over 200 professionals and decision-makers from African, European, and Mediterranean countries. The event, organized by the Tunisia Energy Society (TENS) in partnership with ETAP and ANME, aims to promote cooperation and investment in the energy sector. Discussions during the conference will cover various aspects of the energy sector, including hydrocarbons, renewable energies, energy efficiency, new technologies, financing, and African cooperation.
The conference takes place amidst a challenging global energy landscape, with rising energy costs and volatility in the market. According to Hichem Mansour, President of TENS, the rapid evolution of the geopolitical context, particularly in the Middle East, has significant implications for oil and gas markets. This volatility leads to increased energy bills for countries dependent on imports, with global imports rising by $330 billion between March and August 2026, and $21 billion in Africa, including $1 billion in Tunisia.
Ouael Chouchene, Secretary of State for Energy Transition at the Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy, emphasized the importance of energy efficiency in reducing dependence on energy imports. He noted that in a context of budget constraints and rising energy costs, energy efficiency represents one of the most immediate means of reducing energy dependence. The Tunisian government is prioritizing energy efficiency and renewable energy to mitigate the impact of rising energy costs.
Nafaa Baccari, Director General of ANME, highlighted Africa's vulnerability to climate change and its significant potential for renewable energy and energy efficiency. He stressed the need for African countries to harness this potential to create new opportunities for development, investment, and employment. The IEH aims to create a platform for dialogue between energy sector stakeholders to share expertise, attract investments, and develop concrete projects.
The position of Tunisia, situated between Africa and the Mediterranean, was highlighted as a strategic advantage during the conference. The ELMED project, an electrical interconnection with Italy, exemplifies the new dynamics at play. This project aims to strengthen electrical exchanges between the two Mediterranean shores and support the development of renewable energies.
The IEH seeks to create an environment conducive to the emergence of partnerships that can lead to concrete projects. The event provides a platform for stakeholders to share expertise, inspire each other, and develop partnerships that can help address energy challenges. The Tunisian government is committed to supporting the development of renewable energy and energy efficiency.
The outcome of the IEH is expected to contribute to the development of a more resilient energy sector in Africa and the Mediterranean. The conference will continue to discuss and explore opportunities for cooperation and investment in the energy sector, with a focus on addressing the challenges posed by climate change and rising energy costs.
Key points
- Tunisia hosts the Ifriqiya Energy Hub to strengthen cooperation and investment in the energy sector
- The conference aims to promote African and Mediterranean cooperation on transition
- Energy efficiency and renewable energy are prioritized to mitigate the impact of rising energy costs
