Thomas Tayebwa, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, delivered a compelling message to the European Union, urging them to discontinue the influx of counterfeit electrical accessories into Africa. Tayebwa emphasized the continent’s need for quality and sustainable products during his address at the 64th session of the OACPS Parliamentary Assembly and Constitutive Sessions of the Organization of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS) – European Union General Assembly in Luanda, Angola.
Speaking during the five-day OACPS-EU Joint Parliamentary Assemblies from February 17 to February 21, Tayebwa highlighted the significant dangers posed by counterfeit electrical products such as timing switches, multi-plugs, adapters, and circuit breakers. He emphasized the potential risks of burns, electric shocks, and fire outbreaks associated with these substandard products, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.
To address this pressing challenge, Tayebwa called upon European leaders to halt the shipment of counterfeit electrical products to Africa. Additionally, he urged African leaders to raise awareness and address the extent of this pervasive problem within their respective countries.
Furthermore, Tayebwa criticized what he deemed an unjust proposal by the European Union, which places disproportionate penalties on Africa for climate change despite being the least emitter. He rallied African leaders to reject such proposals and advocate for fair and equitable treatment in international climate agreements.
Verner Ayukegba, Senior Vice-President of the African Energy Chambers, emphasized the critical importance of access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy for the Africa-EU partnership. Ayukegba highlighted the staggering numbers of Africans lacking access to electricity and clean cooking fuels, stressing the urgent need for action to address energy poverty, particularly among vulnerable populations.
In response, Marc Angel, Vice President of the European Parliament, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Africa’s energy transition. He outlined the EU’s pledge of up to Euros 20 billion to facilitate the deployment of renewable energy and expand electricity access across Africa by 2030. Angel emphasized the EU’s focus on promoting affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy services to drive economic development and enhance energy efficiency in Africa.
