By: Dawan Africa

Djibouti and Japan discussed expanding energy cooperation in renewable power and rural electrification, Djibouti’s state news agency ADI reported.

Djibouti’s Energy Minister, Djama Mohamed Hassan, met Japanese Ambassador Okochi Akihiro on Wednesday at the ministry’s offices in Energia Park.

The two officials reviewed the countries’ energy partnership and discussed geothermal development, rural electrification and the possible introduction of concentrated solar power technology, known as CSP.

Djama said expanding electricity access in rural communities remained a priority for Djibouti. He also called for greater use of Japanese expertise, particularly in developing geothermal resources.

The minister said Djibouti had local professionals working in the clean-energy sector but needed additional technical cooperation to advance planned projects.

Okochi outlined Japanese-backed renewable-energy initiatives in Yoboki and Omar Jaggaa that support income-generating activities, according to ADI.

The ambassador also said a delegation of Japanese business representatives was expected to visit Djibouti to assess a small hybrid solar-and-wind project proposed for Randa in the Tadjourah region.

The report did not provide a date for the delegation’s visit or details about the project’s capacity, cost or construction timetable.

About 65% of Djibouti’s population has access to electricity, according to the World Bank.

Djibouti aims to generate all its electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and achieve universal electricity access by 2035.

The 58.9-megawatt Ghoubet wind farm is among the major projects supporting that goal. The World Bank has said the project could prevent the release of about 154,526 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.

Japan supports development programmes in Djibouti through the Japan International Cooperation Agency, including initiatives related to infrastructure, energy and sustainable development.