Rwanda has officially transferred the leadership of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) to Slovenia on January 12, 2025 athe 15th Assembly held in Abu Dhabi.
The two-day conference marked the commemncement of the 15th IRENA Assembly, the first international energy meeting of the year which gathers over 1,500 delegates from IRENA’s 170 Member States, including ministers, experts, CEOs, and youth leaders.
This year’s assembly focuses on the theme: “Accelerating the Renewable Energy Transition – The Way Forward.” This is a crucial moment for global energy discussions. Key issues will include tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030, enhancing climate ambition, and aiding transitions in emerging economies.
Dr. Jimmy Gasore, Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure and outgoing IRENA Assembly President, handed over the leadership to Slovenia’s Minister of Environment, Climate Change, and Energy, Bojan Kumer.
Dr. Jimmy Gasore, Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure and outgoing IRENA Assembly President
Minister Gasore expressed that Rwanda’s leadership role was both an honor and a significant responsibility. “The transition to renewable energy is essential for addressing climate change,” he stated.
IRENA’s Director-General, Francesco La Camera, emphasized the critical role of renewables amid rapid global changes. “In light of shifts in geopolitics and technology, renewables must remain our primary focus,” he asserted.
Minister Kumer emphasized the importance of global collaboration, stating, “No country can achieve this transition alone.” Slovenia is dedicated to building partnerships that will speed up the energy transition and decarbonization initiatives.
This assembly also marks the beginning of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), which runs from January 12 to 18. The event serves as a platform for leaders to promote sustainability efforts and work together on solutions for a greener, more resilient future.
With Slovenia now leading the way, the 15th IRENA Assembly represents a crucial opportunity to advance the global renewable energy agenda.
