{"Energy is seen as a vital tool in economic growth and development. However, the world continues to experience the effects of climate change due to high emission levels mostly derived from fossil fuel consumption and human activities. This study examines the mediating effect of transport energy consumption and the moderating role of clean energy access on the nexus between non-renewable energy consumption and CO2 emissions in 22 African countries from 2001 to 2020. The findings suggest that non-renewable energy consumption increases transport energy consumption and eventually increases CO2 emissions. The mediating effect of transport energy consumption is stronger for resource-intensive countries. Clean energy access is shown to mitigate the adverse effects of non-renewable energy consumption. When access to clean energy increases, there is a reduction in CO2 emissions. Therefore, stakeholders should implement stringent environmental measures, develop efficient transportation and energy systems, and increase investment in renewable energy sources."}
