The African Energy Chamber (AEC) has formally submitted its application to participate as amicus curiae in a landmark advisory proceeding before the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the Chamber announced Wednesday. The move is aimed at ensuring Africa’s energy and development priorities are represented in a case with far-reaching implications for the continent.
The case, brought by the Pan African Lawyers Union, seeks clarification on the legal obligations of African states under regional human rights frameworks in addressing climate change. While the proceedings emphasize Africa’s vulnerability to climate impacts, they also raise questions about how these obligations might affect energy development, industrialization, and economic growth.
Through its application, the AEC aims to provide sector-specific insights on the intersection of climate change, human rights, and energy development. The Chamber argues that Africa’s energy needs, particularly oil and gas, remain critical to industrialization, job creation, and economic resilience.
“We would have preferred a dialogue led by Africans on this matter,” said NJ Ayuk, AEC Executive Chairman. “Africa must not be a passive participant in decisions shaping its energy future. Our application ensures the voices of African countries, their industries, and citizens are heard. Climate policy must reflect not only environmental priorities, but also the fundamental right to development and energy access.”
The Chamber’s intervention comes amid a broader global trend of climate-related litigation, which has in some cases targeted African energy projects. Examples cited include lawsuits challenging financing for the East African Crude Oil Pipeline, gas development in Mozambique by Total Energies, and oil and gas exploration activities in South Africa.
Africa accounts for a relatively small share of global greenhouse gas emissions but remains the most energy-poor region in the world, with more than 600 million people lacking electricity and hundreds of millions without access to clean cooking solutions. The AEC emphasizes that a balanced energy transition must include both hydrocarbons and renewable energy solutions to meet the continent’s development and climate goals.
“As a continent, we must lead this debate with clarity and conviction,” Ayuk added. “Decisions made today will shape Africa’s energy future for generations. Africa deserves a framework that protects its right to develop, ensures energy access, and addresses climate challenges in a fair, pragmatic way, without undue influence from foreign actors or NGOs.”
The AEC’s engagement marks the start of a broader effort to inform, mobilize, and align stakeholders across the continent, helping to safeguard Africa’s right to responsibly and sustainably develop its energy resources.
