North African Nations Vie for Influence in Sahel, Driven by Green Energy Ambitions
A new competition for influence is unfolding in the Sahel region of Africa, spearheaded not by customary western powers, but by North African nations Morocco and Algeria. Driven by aspiring green energy plans – particularly in the burgeoning field of green hydrogen – both countries are strategically investing in the Sahel, aiming to secure access to vast, untapped solar potential and position themselves as key players in Europe’s energy transition.
The rivalry centers on controlling access to the Sahel’s immense solar resources. Morocco intends to generate 52% of its electricity from renewables by 2030, fueling its green-hydrogen initiatives.Algeria, boasting an estimated 180 Treatment-Hours of solar potential annually, is targeting to meet up to 10% of Europe’s green-hydrogen demand by 2040, with plans to export it via the “SoutH2 Corridor” pipeline connecting Algeria, Tunisia, Italy, Austria, and Germany.
This North African push for influence extends beyond energy. The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, alongside other Gulf countries, are also increasing investments in the region, focusing on ports, agriculture, and telecommunications. While their motivations may differ – prioritizing global power projection over immediate strategic interests – their involvement adds another layer of complexity to the Sahel’s evolving geopolitical landscape.
Analysts suggest Western governments have historically mismanaged their approach to the Sahel, focusing on counter-terrorism efforts that have alienated local populations and exacerbated instability. A shift in focus is now crucial, recognizing that the region’s future stability will be steadfast by the economic opportunities presented by North African nations. Engaging with this new reality is essential for the West to forge a enduring and effective policy for the Sahel.
