2023 AWEaP Webinar Series -2- Report

This month we showcased the Democratic Republic of Congo, Namibia and Botswana. The goal was to investigate how to advance and institutionalise gender equality in these markets’ energy sector. Gender equality is critical in the African energy sector for promoting inclusive economic growth and long-term development. Women are frequently underrepresented in the sector, with limited access to market, finance, technology and networks. From an employment equity perspective access to skills development equal pay, and opportunities for advancement remain barriers for women professionals.

A McKinsey analysis on inclusion estimates that at the current rate of development, it will take 151 years to close the gender economic gap worldwide, 29 years to reach gender parity in executive teams, and 24 years to achieve ethnic diversity. This means that to-date the hardest-hit groups on the continent by energy poverty are women, young people, persons with disabilities, and marginalised groups. 

To address these challenges, efforts are being made to increase women’s participation and leadership in the energy sector. For example in this webinar, we had representatives from each country to speak about their efforts to reduce gender inequality in the industry. AWEaP has established this important platform for participants in Africa’s energy ecosystem to get together and discuss the development of various value chains in order to unearth untapped business prospects. This gives current and potential business owners essential information about business opportunities.

Gender equality in Africa’s energy sector necessitates a multifaceted approach that includes policy and regulatory frameworks, investment in education and training programmes, and efforts to address cultural and social barriers to women’s participation. By empowering women in the energy sector, we can build more inclusive and sustainable energy systems that benefit everyone.

The following stakeholders were invited to share insights on the construct of energy value chains and opportunities emerging as countries endeavour to achieve security of energy supply: Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs):

Our monthly webinars include OEMs like Rockwell Automation for the following reasons:

OEMs design and manufacture products, services, solutions and systems sought after by utilities and different large power users in the energy and power sector. We invite them to share trends in electricity system digitisation, decarbonisation and decentralisation. We invite them to showcase how they enable access to technology for SMMEs, especially women owned companies.

Multilateral and Regional Organisations:

Showcase supportive programmes designed and executed in the countries in line with Gender mainstreaming in the energy and power sector. These organisations are made up of three or more countries that collaborate on issues of mutual interest and global importance.

These organisations can use funds from multiple governments to fund a variety of projects.

Energy Industry Leaders

Individuals and organisations that are experts in their domestic energy market, even regional markets. They possess deep insights into the structure of the energy market, players, policies and developments. They are highly effective in the industry and have a sterling track record. We invited industry leaders to share their insights and to explain complex policy concepts.

Industry Associations

Building reciprocal value adding networks is fundamental to the success of any entrepreneur. We are a non-competitive platform and organisation. We collaborate with other associations to build a supportive and inclusive energy ecosystem.