A new study by researchers at the Brew-Hammond Energy Centre, KNUST has warned that Africa’s transition to clean energy could deepen existing inequalities and threaten human security if governments fail to implement inclusive policies and involve vulnerable communities in decision-making processes.

The research emphasizes that while the shift to renewable energy is key to addressing climate change, it risks leaving behind already disadvantaged populations, particularly those with limited access to electricity and workers in fossil fuel-dependent sectors.

“There is a lot of excitement about the green transition, but we know very little about how these changes will affect people’s lives, especially those who are already vulnerable.” said Dr Paalo, a fellow at the Brew-Hammond Energy Centre and lecturer at KNUST.

The study, conducted by Dr. Sebastian Angzoorokuu Paalo together with Emelia Sefah and Kawsara Wanyiwonara Mohammed, examines how existing social and economic inequalities, shaped by political and economic systems, are likely to influence who benefits from the energy transition.

According to the findings, communities that already struggle with access to electricity are at greater risk of being excluded from the benefits of renewable energy initiatives.

“If we do not pay attention to inequalities now, we risk creating new ones in the energy transition. A just transition must ensure that no group is left out,” Dr. Paalo cautioned.

The research highlights that the challenge goes beyond environmental sustainability to include improving livelihoods and economic conditions. It stresses that weak governance systems and ineffective policies could worsen disparities, determining who gains access to new energy opportunities and who does not.

The study underscores the importance of engaging local communities in energy-related decision-making processes.

“Local communities must be part of the conversation. Their involvement is key to improving access to electricity, creating opportunities, and ensuring that the benefits of the transition are shared equitably,” he said.

The researchers recommend that achieving a just energy transition in Africa will require strong policy frameworks, inclusive governance, and active stakeholder participation. Prioritizing equity and human security, they argue, is essential to ensuring that the shift to clean energy delivers sustainable benefits for all.