2026 Perspectives for the Public Sector

Financing is also a priority area for Mission 300, and we have seen a number of great initiatives, particularly in results-based financing (RBF) programs. RBF programs provide a mechanism for payments based on the achievement of verified new off-grid connections. This enables off-grid providers to expand into geographic areas that may otherwise not be economically viable to enter. For example, the World Bank followed up its initial RBF efforts in Nigeria with a $750 million DARES program and $100 million Ascent program in Uganda. The path forward requires considerable effort, but with the backing of local governments, multilateral banks, development finance institutions, and private finance, the future for off-grid solutions in Sub-Sahara Africa is bright. This is good news for improving access to basic needs on the continent, enabling pharmacies to keep medicine chilled, schools to deliver educational content, homes to provide a space for kids to study after the sun goes down, and small business owners to keep their shop doors open longer. As basic access energy takes root, household needs will continue to evolve. We imagine a future where all people have access to electricity to enable access to safe water because of an electric kettle and the ability to enjoy a healthy and diverse diet because they have modern cooking and a refrigerator. It’s going to take a village called Mission 300 to make it happen. Citi Perspectives for the Public Sector 27