The AfSEM aims at connecting the Continent’s energy strategies and action plans by harmonising regulatory frameworks and integrating generation, transmission, and distribution master plans. This will allow for the diversification of energy sources supporting energy transition, better trade and investments exchanges, and close the energy infrastructure gaps between regions and countries.

The goal is to build one of the largest electricity markets in the world, covering the African Union's 55 Member States, and a population of more than 1.3 billion.

Like other regions of Sub Saharan Africa (SSA), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) faces many challenges as it strives to reduce poverty and improve the socioeconomic well being of its population. One of the key challenges facing economic growth in the region is limited access to modern energy services and growing energy security challenges. The region faces widespread and unsustainable production and use of traditional biomass (firewood and charcoal).