As the continent enters a defining decade for both its development and energy transition trajectories, one reality has been clear for a while: Africa cannot afford to simply adapt to other people’s green deals, it must define its own. From the EU Green Deal to the US Inflation Reduction Act, global climate strategies are too often influenced by international investment flows, while also failing to reflect African realities: low historical emissions, impressive demographic trajectories, high energy poverty, and urgent development needs. The question is no longer whether Africa should join the global green race — but on what terms, at which pace, and with which priorities. To be relevant and impactful, Africa’s transition must be locally grounded and globally strategic — one that sees energy not just as a climate issue, but as the foundation for jobs, industry, and inclusive growth. In this context, asserting ownership over climate policies and energy future is not just a political stance — it is an economic necessity.