German aims to boost hydrogen cooperation at global summit

Germany's State Secretary for the Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development, Jochen Flasbarth, recently attended the Global Hydrogen Summit in Windhoek, Namibia. The summit aimed to pave the way for increased cooperation in green hydrogen projects, particularly in Africa. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, Flasbarth highlighted the importance of decarbonizing industries through the use of green hydrogen and renewable energy sources. He emphasized the critical need to limit climate change by 1.5 degrees and underscored the role of green hydrogen in achieving this goal. Flasbarth explained that Africa has emerged as a promising investment market for green hydrogen projects, offering significant opportunities for decarbonization and energy export. While acknowledging that Africa currently receives less than 2% of global investments, Flasbarth stressed the potential for countries like Namibia to leverage green hydrogen production to enhance their wealth resources and address energy deficits in neighboring nations such as South Africa. The conversation also delved into Germany's commitment to investing in green energy projects in Africa. Flasbarth revealed that Germany had pledged around $4 billion at the G20 Compact with Africa Summit last year to support green energy initiatives across the continent until 2030. These funds are being allocated to a diverse array of countries, including South Africa, Senegal, and Namibia, to facilitate the transition to sustainable energy sources. Furthermore, Flasbarth highlighted Germany's partnerships with various African countries, such as Morocco, Kenya, Nigeria, and Senegal, in advancing green energy projects. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among African nations to maximize the benefits of renewable energy resources and drive economic development across the continent. Overall, the Global Hydrogen Summit served as a platform for international cooperation and shared commitment towards accelerating the shift to green hydrogen and renewable energy solutions. Germany's ongoing investments and partnerships in Africa underscore the country's dedication to advancing sustainable development and combating climate change on a global scale.