U.S. Rep. Meeks Statement on the House Foreign Affairs Committee Markup of the Bipartisan H.R. 2548, “Electrify Africa Act of 2014”

U.S. Rep. Meeks Statement on the House Foreign Affairs Committee Markup of the Bipartisan H.R. 2548, “Electrify Africa Act of 2014”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY) released the following statement on the House Foreign Affairs Committee Markup of the Bipartisan H.R. 2548, “Electrify Africa Act of 2014”:

“This week the House Foreign Affairs Committee passed the bipartisan H.R. 2548 Electrify Africa Act of 2014. This Bill supports President Obama’s Power Africa Initiative, which seeks to meet the demand for approximately $300 billion investment for developing clean, low-cost electricity in sub-Saharan Africa. This Bill is critically important for unlocking the potential for long-term economic growth, stability, improved healthcare and education in Africa.

“Africa has a great story to tell, but more needs to be done for Africa to reach its full potential. Investments in key infrastructure, such as reliable energy, are vital to continuing African growth and development. President Obama’s Power Africa Initiative capitalizes on this progress by leveraging international support, the private sector, and regional cooperation to dramatically increase electricity access in Africa. The Electrify Africa Act will solidify ambitious goals for low-cost, clean energy on the Continent, including 20,000 megawatts of electrical power by 2020.

“The Electrify Africa Act of 2014 will bring confidence to investors that Africa has the capacity to support long-term economic growth, and is a stable partner for private corporations, NGOs, international organizations and entrepreneurs. Through this Bill, more effective investments in the electricity sector will further enhance Africa’s trade capacity. I look forward to working with my colleagues on this Committee to ensure Africa’s future continues to be bright.”

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