Electricity access rate is estimated at 60% in West Africa

In the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) region, energy sector regulators are strengthening their cooperation. Meeting in Cotonou from 10 to 12 June 2026, regulatory authorities from member states discussed the challenges of regional energy governance and explored ways to accelerate the integration of electricity markets. The meeting also marked an important milestone in making the Regional Committee of Energy Sector Regulators fully operational. Here is a closer look at the discussions and their implications for the region’s energy sector. 

Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin, hosted the meeting of the Regional Committee of Energy Regulators of the West African Economic and Monetary Union from 10 to 12 June 2026. This consultation session brought together regulatory authorities from across the regional bloc. Discussions focused on the challenges and obstacles to strengthening cooperation among national institutions, a key milestone considered essential for the future of regional energy development.

The gathering brought together the Presidents and Chief Executive Officers of the regulatory authorities from WAEMU member states to discuss, above all, the operationalization of this committee. In particular, they focused on adopting its rules of procedure and approving the 2026–2027 action plan.

GABRIEL DEGBEGNI, President of the Electricity Regulatory Authority

For regional leaders, energy remains a key driver of economic transformation, industrialization, and improved living standards for the population. In West Africa, the electricity access rate now exceeds 60%, according to official estimates, compared with 57.4% in 2022. This master plan aims to promote the development of a unified electricity network capable of maximizing each country’s energy potential while meeting the growing demand from households and national productive sectors.

Regulatory bodies are essential stakeholders in ensuring transparency, fairness, economic efficiency, and the protection of consumers’ interests, while also providing an attractive environment for investors.

YAWOVI BATCHASSI, Resident Representative of the WAEMU Commission in Benin

Despite significant progress in West Africa, achieving universal access to electricity remains a major challenge. Faced with steadily growing energy demand, member states are stepping up their efforts to promote regional integration and expand the use of renewable energy sources. Through this strategic initiative, the WAEMU aims to develop a more competitive energy market and accelerate the modernization of its electricity infrastructure. Evidence of this economic momentum can be seen in intra-union trade, which reached a new milestone in 2025, with a record quarterly trade volume exceeding 1.3 trillion CFA francs.