Nigeria’s Ambitious Green Energy Plan and Zimbabwe’s AI Vision
African nations are making bold strides toward a sustainable and technologically advanced future. Nigeria is spearheading this movement with a colossal $410 billion investment in renewable energy by 2060. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe is setting the stage for a digital economy through its new national AI strategy.
Nigeria’s Renewable Energy Investment
Nigeria has committed over $400 billion to renewable energy over the next 30 years, aiming to fuel its digital transformation. Vice President Kashim Shettima introduced this initiative at the Nigerian Renewable Energy Innovation Forum (NREIF) 2025, highlighting renewable energy as the cornerstone of Nigeria’s digital ambitions.
The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, emphasized the critical role of clean energy in achieving digital inclusion. “Renewable energy is not the destination. It is a catalyst. When there is power, connectivity follows, and that connectivity triggers true transformation,” Inuwa stated at the IMF annual meeting in Washington.
With nearly half of Nigeria’s 220 million population residing in rural areas, expanding digital initiatives to these underserved regions is crucial. Inuwa highlighted that digital solutions are vital for economic empowerment, especially through remote digital jobs and AI-driven agricultural enhancements.
Investments and Agreements
VP Shettima outlined Nigeria’s vision to lead Africa’s renewable energy landscape, leveraging its abundant resources and youthful population. Initially, Nigeria needs $23 billion to enhance energy access for the underserved. The government has already secured deals worth $435 million through the Rural Electrification Agency and private partners to deliver clean energy. A recent agreement with Chinese solar manufacturer LONGi aims to establish a local solar panel factory, supporting this renewable push.
Nigeria’s digitalization journey began in 2019 with the launch of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy by former President Muhammadu Buhari. This strategy encompasses digital infrastructure and services and includes AI advancements expected to contribute $2.8 trillion to Africa’s economy by 2030.
Zimbabwe’s AI Strategy
In Zimbabwe, the government has introduced the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026–2030), aimed at harnessing AI’s benefits while mitigating its risks. Announced by Information Minister Jenfan Muswere in Harare, the strategy focuses on transitioning to a knowledge-based economy and enhancing economic inclusion.
Muswere emphasized that this strategy will enable Zimbabwe to participate in the global digital economy effectively. Digital literacy campaigns and a national AI applications competition are planned to support this initiative. ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera highlighted the government’s commitment to integrating AI into Zimbabwe’s national development.
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Original Story at coingeek.com