East Africa’s energy sector is undergoing a significant transformation, driven not just by technological advancements but also by a powerful new force: women leaders. For decades, this industry has been a male-dominated domain. However, a growing number of women are shattering glass ceilings and playing pivotal roles in shaping the future of energy in the region.
“Fostering increased inclusivity throughout the entire energy value chain is not just the right thing to do, it’s smart economics,” says Victoria Kwakwa, Regional Vice President for Eastern and Southern Africa at the World Bank, who oversees a multi-billion dollar portfolio focused on infrastructure development across the continent. “By bringing a wider range of perspectives and experiences to the table, we can accelerate socio-economic development and achieve a more sustainable energy future.”
These women leaders are making their mark in various segments of the energy landscape. In Uganda, for example, Faith Edigold Musimenta, a Senior Petroleum Economic and Financial Analyst at the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, is playing a critical role in developing innovative financing models for the country’s nascent oil and gas industry. Her expertise is crucial for ensuring the responsible and profitable exploitation of these resources.
The focus isn’t solely on traditional energy sources. The renewable energy sector is also seeing a surge in female leadership. Across East Africa, women are at the forefront of developing and implementing solar, wind, and geothermal projects that are bringing clean and affordable energy to millions.
“We need to ensure that everyone has access to reliable and sustainable energy,” says a passionate entrepreneur leading a solar power start-up in Kenya. “This is not just about powering homes and businesses, it’s about empowering communities and unlocking their full potential.”
The impact of these women leaders extends beyond their immediate projects. They are also inspiring a new generation of girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, which are traditionally under-represented by women.
“When I see successful women leading the charge in the energy sector, it motivates me to keep pushing forward in my own studies,” says a bright-eyed engineering student in Rwanda. “They are showing me that anything is possible.”
The journey towards a more inclusive and sustainable energy future in East Africa is well underway. With women leaders at the helm, the sector is poised for even greater innovation and progress, ensuring a brighter future for the region.