The report, produced by UNDP’s Global Policy Centre for Governance in collaboration with UNDP offices in Nigeria and South Africa, examines how civic participation influences the planning and implementation of just energy transitions in both countries. It highlights that energy transition processes are not purely technical challenges but are deeply intertwined with political, social, and equity considerations.
Empirical insights were gathered through desk reviews and interviews with key stakeholders, revealing that while Nigeria and South Africa have demonstrated a commitment to inclusive governance, translating participation into tangible and equitable outcomes remains a challenge. Participatory mechanisms often exist in principle but require stronger institutional support and follow-through to impact decision-making meaningfully.
The report emphasizes that a just energy transition depends on co-production—a continuous collaboration between state and non-state actors across the entire policy cycle. It provides recommendations at institutional, political, and technical levels, encouraging the embedding of continuous civic engagement, broadening stakeholder participation, and democratizing access to knowledge and decision-making processes to ensure more equitable and inclusive energy futures.
