A new report by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation has shed light on the top 10 African countries with the cleanest and most affordable energy, with Gabon taking the top spot. The report highlights the importance of achieving a high SDG 7 index, which focuses on "Affordable and Clean Energy" as one of the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

The SDG 7 index assesses a country's development in ensuring universal access to modern energy services, increasing the proportion of renewable energy in the global energy mix, and more. A high SDG 7 ranking indicates that enterprises and industries have access to reliable energy, which lowers operational costs, boosts productivity, and attracts investors. Moreover, universal energy access implies that more households are fully powered, allowing for improved lighting, cooking, heating, and technology access.

This shift minimizes energy disparity while immediately improving critical aspects of society, including education and health systems. For instance, electricity in rural regions enables children to study after sunset and health clinics to store vaccinations and run critical medical equipment. Additionally, a high score frequently indicates a move to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower, lowering reliance on fossil fuels and addressing climate change.

The top 10 African countries with the cleanest and most affordable energy, as per the Financing Africa report, are: Gabon (85.1), Eswatini (70.5), Mauritius (70.3), Tunisia (70.2), Morocco (70.0), Egypt (69.9), Algeria (65.5), Cabo Verde (61.9), South Africa (59.7), and Sudan (55.1). These countries are setting an example for the rest of the continent, demonstrating the benefits of investing in clean and affordable energy.

The implications of this report are far-reaching. As African countries strive to achieve universal access to energy, they can expect to see significant economic growth, improved healthcare, and enhanced education systems. Moreover, the shift towards renewable energy sources will help mitigate the effects of climate change, which many African countries are extremely sensitive to.

In conclusion, the Mo Ibrahim Foundation's report highlights the importance of prioritizing clean and affordable energy in Africa. As the continent continues to grow and develop, it is crucial that energy access is not only expanded but also made sustainable and environmentally friendly. The top 10 countries listed in the report serve as a model for others to follow, and their success can have a profound impact on the future of Africa.