Former US Ambassador To Tanzania Joins One Planet Africa Board

November 20, 2014 Niyi Aderibigbe Careers & Education, Leadership

inShare

VENTURES AFRICA – Renewable energy project developer, One Planet Africa has appointed former US ambassador to Tanzania, Charles R. Stith to the company’s board.
The African-American is considered to be one of America’s leading experts on development issues in Sub-Saharan Africa. One Planet Africa will gain from his experience which spans over decades in the region.
“Ambassador Stith combines considerable diplomatic and business experience in Sub-Saharan Africa. His involvement in One Planet Africa will be critical to our success in the region,” said
John Wood, Chairman of One Planet Africa.
One Planet Africa is a subsidiary of One Planet Infrastructure, a US-based developer specialized in delivering renewable energy and infrastructure projects in developing countries. The company’s founders were early pioneers in providing renewable energy in the Caribbean, and One Planet Africa’s objective is to duplicate that success in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Ambassador Stith described One Planet Africa as the right company at the right time to help Africa in dealing with its energy challenges.

Ambassador Stith (left) with OPA chairman John Wood

“I’m honored to have been extended this appointment,” he said. “Energy is destiny for the continent of Africa. Without it the continent can’t develop, but with it there is no obstacle it can’t overcome. And renewable energy is the cleanest and most cost effective way for Africa to meet this challenge.”
Stith served as the United States Ambassador to Tanzania during the Clinton Administration. He is widely known for guiding the embassy during the tumultuous period which followed its bombing in 1998. Stith is currently Chairman of The Pula Group, a holding company dealing in real estate and mining in Africa. He is also a member of the Africa advisory group to the U.S. Trade Representative.
His appointment is expected to boost One Planet Africa’s activities in the renewable energy industry in the continent. Africa has been regarded as a gold mine for renewable energy due to abundant solar and wind resources. The activities of companies like One Planet Africa is expected to enable the country attain its full potential in renewable energy and address its energy deficit. According to the World Bank, just 24 percent of the population of sub-Saharan Africa has access to electricity.