Several African countries rely heavily on oil and gas exports, yet the continent, contributing only about 3% of global CO2 emissions, is severely impacted by climate change. The episode of Business Africa explores the role of fossil fuels in African economies. South Africa has begun decarbonizing its economy with an $8 billion loan for energy transition, leading to frequent power outages. NJ Auk JD, Director General of the African Energy Chamber, emphasizes the importance of natural gas for Africa's energy transition. Gabon presented a strategic plan at the Crans Montana Forum to attract foreign investments, aiming to recover from the COVID-19 crisis and boost its oil and gas revenues while advancing digital transition and job creation. Ghana is renewing its colonial-era railway network, with a new 299 km line forming a strategic corridor for economic development.

As Africa grapples with the global climate emergency, the continent faces the challenge of pursuing economic development without heavy reliance on fossil fuels. Despite contributing minimally to global CO2 emissions, African countries like South Africa are leading decarbonization efforts, though power cuts pose challenges. NJ Ayuk JD of the African Chamber of Energies emphasizes the need for natural gas in the energy transition. Gabon aims to attract foreign investment to boost oil and gas revenues while advancing its digital transition. Ghana is revitalizing its railway network to enhance trade and economic development.

Vodacom is introducing innovative technological solutions to enhance mining operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). At the Mining Week event, Vodacom showcased products like Umoja, an employee self-service system developed in partnership with Glencore and Standard Bank, and M-Pesa, which facilitates financial inclusion in remote areas. Vodacom aims to contribute to the local economy and improve the lives of the Congolese people despite challenges such as the energy deficit.

The mining industry is increasingly adopting technological innovations across various operations, from exploration to mineral processing. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Vodacom, a leading mobile service provider, showcased its technological solutions at the 8th Mining Week, including the Umoja system developed in partnership with Glencore and Standard Bank. This system enhances communication and efficiency for mining employees. Additionally, the article touches on Sierra Leone's economic struggles and Tanzania's efforts to transform its agricultural sector.

Since April 15, 2023, Sudan has been experiencing intense conflict leading to a halted economy, a collapsed financial system, and soaring food and transport prices. Sudan's oil production has drastically decreased from 500,000 barrels per day in 2008 to 60,000 barrels per day, exacerbated by South Sudan's independence in 2011 and decades of corruption under Omar El Béchir's rule. The power-sharing between generals Abdel Fattah Al Burhan and Hamdane Daglo has deterred international support following the 2021 coup. Peter Biar Ajak from Harvard Kennedy School suggests that a ceasefire is necessary without legitimizing the generals, who are seen as warlords clinging to power. He advocates for a civilian transfer of power and long-avoided reforms. Additionally, the article touches on the revision of Sino-Congolese cooperation and efforts in Benin to produce ecological charcoal to combat deforestation and climate change.

Sudan's economy has collapsed due to ongoing conflict since April 2023, compounded by historical issues like reduced oil production and political instability under Omar al-Bashir. The power struggle between generals Abdel Fattah Al Burhan and Hamdane Daglo has further deteriorated the situation. Peter Biar Ajak from Harvard Kennedy School suggests that achieving a ceasefire and transferring power to civilians is crucial for economic recovery and implementing long-avoided reforms.

Africa faces significant challenges in green industrialisation due to climate change impacts and difficulties in raising green funds, despite existing mechanisms. Economist Georges Vivien Hougbonon suggests that banks and investment funds can play a crucial role in mobilising these funds. The Economic Commission for Africa highlights the continent's underperformance in the carbon credit market and green bonds. Additionally, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe's introduction of a gold-backed crypto-currency to address inflation and liquidity issues is met with skepticism from the International Monetary Fund.

Africa can advance its digital transformation by expanding access to broadband at a lower cost. The World Bank estimates that $100 billion is needed by 2030 to ensure continent-wide high-speed internet access and an additional half-million kilometers of fiber to cover Africa. Funding disparities for startups exist, with challenges including access to mentor networks and a lack of confidence in women-led startups. In Burundi, agriculture and livestock are vital to the economy, and Cédric Niyongabo is innovating with hydroponic fodder to enhance his farming operations.

Africa faces challenges in reducing internet costs and achieving digital transformation, requiring $100 billion by 2030 for high-speed access and additional infrastructure. Disparities in startup financing persist, with issues such as limited mentor networks and biases against women-led startups. In Burundi, agriculture and livestock are vital, with innovations like hydroponic fodder by Cedric Niyongabo enhancing production.

Intra-African trade accounts for only 17% of the continent's exchanges, with the African Union advocating for pan-Africanization to strengthen regional integration. The 5th UN Conference on Least Developed Countries highlighted financing for SMEs as crucial, especially in sub-Saharan Africa where women, who produce up to 70% of food, face significant gender inequalities impacting earnings. The Afcfta and Rwanda have signed an agreement to establish a $10 billion fund to facilitate trade within the free trade zone, with insights from Gérard Amoi Amangoua, managing Director of NAG in Côte d'Ivoire.