The Regional Association of Energy Regulators for Eastern and Southern Africa (RAERESA) is a specialized agency of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa.[1] It was established to promote regional integration and investment in the energy sector by harmonizing regulatory frameworks among member states.[2] The organization operates under the legal framework of the COMESA Treaty, particularly Articles 106 to 109, which mandate cooperation in energy development and regulation.[1][3]
RAERESA was officially launched on March 16, 2009, after the signing of its Constitution by seven founding national energy regulators: Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Rwanda, and Sudan. The organization was created to address regional disparities in energy regulation and encourage the development of a sustainable and competitive energy market in the region.[4]
The Plenary: The highest decision-making body comprising representatives from member states.
The Executive Committee: Responsible for overseeing the implementation of strategic initiatives.
Portfolio Committees: Focused on specific areas such as legal harmonization and capacity building.
The Secretariat: Led by the Chief Executive Officer, it handles daily operations and coordination.[11]
Members and Governance
As of 2022, RAERESA includes 16 full members and 5 associate members.[12] Full members are energy regulatory authorities from countries including Egypt, Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia, among others.[13] Associate members include Comoros, Eritrea, and Tunisia.[14]
Full Members of RAERESA
Full Members of RAERESA
Country
Regulatory Authority
CEO/Director General
Website
Burundi
Authority of Regulation of Water and Energy Sectors (AREEN)
RAERESA undertakes various initiatives to strengthen regional energy cooperation. Its key activities include:
Providing technical support and training for member states.
Advocating for environmental sustainability and energy efficiency.
Promoting the use of renewable energy technologies.
Implementing the Enhancement of a Sustainable Regional Energy Market in Eastern and Southern Africa (ESREM) project under the European Development Fund.[1]
International Cooperation
RAERESA collaborates with international organizations such as the International Confederation of Energy Regulators (ICER) and to share best practices and improve energy regulation globally.[15][16] In 2022, a delegation of 13 officials from the organization visited the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE), to learn about development of power in Norway, and Norway's energy law.[17]
Funding
The association receives financial support from development partners, including the African Development Bank.[18] In 2022, the AfDB provided a $1.5 million grant to enhance the harmonization of electricity regulations and facilitate cross-border power trading within the COMESA region.[19][20]
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