On November 3rd to 4th, 2023, the global environmental watchdog, will unite with frontline communities and grassroots organizations worldwide for a momentous event known as “Power Up.” This initiative seeks to galvanize political support for a global renewable energy revolution and compel the fossil fuel industry to be held accountable for its role in the ongoing environmental crisis.
“Power Up” will feature over 150 actions across the globe, with 23 of these events slated to take place in 11 countries across Africa. Among these actions, Lamu, Kenya, will be a focal point, where a creative cultural display and sail dhow races will be held to raise awareness about the urgent need for renewable energy adoption and the cancellation of the proposed coal-fired power plant in the area, which threatens a UNESCO world heritage site.
In Kenya’s Mui basin, community representatives from coal mining blocks will conduct a procession to deliver a symbolic coal “death” certificate to the Office of the Governor of Kitui, urging support for a coal-free Kitui. Meanwhile, in Sasolburg, South Africa, the Vaal Environmental Justice Alliance will organize a parade and festival outside the Sasol plant, demonstrating the contrast between fossil fuels and renewable energy possibilities.
Cape Town, South Africa, will witness a gathering of Green Connection, 350.org, and their supporters in front of parliament, advocating for an end to Total’s fossil fuel exploration and exploitation and demanding that the government holds fossil fuel companies accountable for their contributions to the climate crisis.
In Cotonou, Benin, a renewable energy-powered festival, blending art and activism, will engage attendees and emphasize the call for renewable energy adoption. Kinshasa and Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo will host protests against the auctioning of oil and gas blocks in the country.
Accra, Ghana, will host campaigners at a solar streetlamp installation in Ekumfi, where a coal power plant’s construction was halted. These activists will call on the national government to execute its renewable energy plans. In Ogoni, Nigeria, a community meeting will urge Shell to compensate and restore the dignity of communities impacted by the Ogoni oil spill, featuring a solar installation display to showcase renewable energy’s potential.
In Port Harcourt, Nigeria, activists will march to the Federal Ministry of Energy in solidarity with the Ogoni community, pushing for Shell’s accountability and the restoration of dignity for affected communities. Additional “Power Up” actions will also occur in Tanzania, Uganda, Togo, Cameroon, and Senegal, marking a global call for a transition to sustainable, people-centered renewables and the phasing out of fossil fuels. This united effort underscores the urgency of addressing the climate crisis and creating a cleaner, more sustainable future for all.
