Renewable Energy Sector Struggles with Women Representation Across Africa

South Africa and other African nations are making significant strides to enhance women's participation in the renewable energy sector, recognizing it as both a moral imperative and strategic necessity. In South Africa, women comprise only about 33% of the energy workforce, with limited representation in leadership roles, but initiatives like the Gender Diversity Study and the all-women-moderated Windaba 2025 conference aim to dismantle barriers and promote inclusivity as integral to the energy transition. The African Development Bank advocates for at least 40% female representation in leadership, technical, and entrepreneurial roles within renewable energy, emphasizing that without deliberate actions, existing gender inequalities may persist. Their gender strategy focuses on supporting women entrepreneurs, investing in STEM skills, and ensuring gender-responsive infrastructure projects. These efforts highlight the critical role women play in community-centered energy solutions and the broader transition to clean energy, while also addressing societal constraints and education access issues that limit women’s full participation. Overall, empowering women is seen as essential to achieving equitable, sustainable energy futures across the continent.