Venezuelan Vice President Calls for Energy Cooperation with Africa
Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez urged a united front between Venezuela and Africa to tackle energy poverty during the virtual African Energy Week 2025, taking place in Cape Town, South Africa. Rodríguez stressed the importance of joint efforts in the field of energy development, emphasizing the need for both regions to act “as a single force” for future energy objectives, reports 24brussels.
In her address, Rodríguez highlighted Venezuela’s status as possessing the world’s largest oil reserves and affirmed that Africa could be the driving force behind future energy demands. The event, running from September 30 to October 3, serves as a critical platform for discussions on energy sustainability and cooperation between the two regions.
The Vice President pointed out that Africa holds 7.8 percent of global oil reserves and contributes to eight percent of daily oil production. She underscored that addressing energy poverty in African nations should be a priority for all involved parties, recognizing that persisting global inequalities undermine sustainable development.
Rodríguez called attention to the economic growth projected for Africa, advocating for a focus on the “energy trilemma” which encompasses accessibility, security, and environmental sustainability. She further stated that deep energy inequalities must not define the future global order.
She commended the role of South Africa as a BRICS member and remarked on Africa’s historical resistance against colonial and neocolonial pressures. The Vice President extended her gratitude to the African Union for its support amid the perceived military threats from the United States in the Caribbean, reiterating her appreciation for the backing Venezuela received during the 80th UN General Assembly.
Rodríguez also accused the United States of attempting to seize Venezuela’s vast oil and gas resources, positioning the threats as detrimental not only to Venezuela but to energy stability in the broader region.
The African Energy Week gathers governments, firms, and sector specialists, aiming to foster discussions about the continent’s energy future while navigating the transition towards more sustainable energy sources. The conference represents a crucial opportunity for African nations to unite against external market dominance and promote greater energy autonomy.