Energy Minister earns PhD with research linking FDI, energy use in Africa

Ghana’s Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has been awarded a PhD in Development Finance by the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa after successfully defending his doctoral thesis on energy, foreign direct investment (FDI), and environmental sustainability.

His research has also produced notable publications in reputable academic journals.

The degree was conferred during the university’s graduation ceremony held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

Jinapor’s thesis, titled Inclusive Growth and Environmental Quality: Evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa, explored three key areas: the impact of FDI and energy consumption on inclusive economic growth; the role of institutions in mitigating the environmental consequences of economic activity; and how financial development and ICT can support energy sufficiency across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

Drawing on panel data from 2000 to 2019, his research offers valuable policy recommendations, demonstrating that SSA countries can pursue accelerated, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable growth in line with Africa’s Agenda 2063 and the UN’s Agenda 2030.

This latest academic milestone adds to Jinapor’s extensive educational background.

He already holds an MSc in Energy Economics, an MSc in Development Finance, an MBA in Marketing, and an MA in Economic Policy Management.

Beyond academia and politics, Jinapor has played a pivotal role in Ghana’s energy sector.

He serves as Chairman of the Nuclear Energy Programme Implementing Organisation and sits on the board of the Electricity Company of Ghana.

He has also represented the country at major international platforms, including COP28 in Dubai, the IMF Spring Meetings in Washington, and the Mining Indaba in South Africa.