Briefing On Healthcare Electrification In Humanitarian Settings
UNITAR
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Abstract: This briefing explores systemic challenges and scalable solutions in powering healthcare facilities in fragile African settings. Across 11 country case studies?including Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia and Mauritania?it documents the energy deficits undermining quality healthcare and climate resilience. It presents decentralized renewable energy models like mini-grids and solar kits, stressing long-term O&M planning and community involvement. The paper outlines barriers such as short funding cycles, donor fragmentation, and exclusion from national electrification strategies. Using the Global Platform for Action (GPA), the authors advocate an intersectional and human rights-based approach to energy access, linking electrification to climate equity, maternal health outcomes, and local ownership. Kenya?s experience with solar-powered clinics is highlighted as a replicable model. The report calls for coherent national frameworks to embed health electrification in climate finance pipelines, aiming to transform healthcare resilience through innovation, data sharing and cross-sectoral governance.