Power Sector Reforms in Sub-Saharan Africa: Some Lessons

Abstract

Over the last decade power sector reforms have been implemented in varying degrees across African countries. However, the full reform model has not been implemented in any country. This paper provides an overview of the African experience with electricity reform, discusses its drivers and rationale, and summarises the reform status. It concludes that reforms have not met the expected objectives of attracting investment, moving toward competition and achieving rural electrification. While the literature highlights the shortcomings of a uniform reform model, country experience does not, as yet, reflect this new understanding.