Since establishing The Rockefeller Foundation’s Africa Regional Office in 1966, we’ve formed strong ties with African governments, academic institutions, and pan-African entities. The office continues to catalyze investments to support Africa as a leader in the fight against climate change.
Africa’s low emissions are not due to a decision to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but rather to underinvestment in power generation and infrastructure. This has led to a severe lack of access to reliable electricity on the continent.
If Africa continues to develop as other nations have, we will never achieve net zero emissions. The traditional development path relies heavily on fossil fuels. Africa needs a different approach to sustainable and low-carbon development.
Why It Matters
- $0BillionBillion
of global climate financing goes to Africa
accounting for only 12% of total investment
- 0MillionMillion
Africans lived without access to electricity in 2023
representing more than 80% of the global population without power
- 0%%
of Africa's energy needs could come from renewable sources by 2040
with proper planning and investment, given its abundant natural resources
Our Strategy
- 1 Power: We work to bring renewable energy to sub-Saharan Africa, where 55 percent of the population has no access to electricity. We also seek to expand Africa’s role in the voluntary carbon market space, turning to Africa’s abundant natural resources.
- 2 Food: We believe school meals are the most reliable social safety net, and are supporting nutritious meals, often sourced from local produce grown through regenerative methods.
- 3 Health: We aim to strengthen community health systems with data-driven decisions. By leveraging health data, advocating for investment in climate-health initiatives, and supporting effective adaptation plans, we build capacity for climate-resilient health systems. We also foster collaboration across health, environment, and finance sectors to achieve health equity for all.
Meet the 2026 Africa Big Bets Fellows
Meet 10 changemakers advancing bold, locally rooted solutions across the African continent, driving impact in countries including Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania.
meet the fellows
Our Committed Grants
Discover how our funding is driving impact across Africa — supporting initiatives that strengthen communities, foster innovation, and create lasting change.
Stories from the Frontlines
Regional News
- Sep 24 2026The Rockefeller Foundation and Mission 300 Accelerator Launch Demonstration to Test Whether AI Demand Can Help Finance Energy Access in Africa
- Sep 17 2026Beast Philanthropy and Rockefeller Foundation Partner on Nutritious, Sustainable School Meals in Ghana and Kenya
- Jul 16 2026Zero Gap Fund’s Catalytic Capital Keeps Multiplying: $30M Sustains $1.05B for the UN Sustainable Development Goals
