Skip to contentWomen remain vastly underrepresented in Africa’s energy sector—especially in leadership and technical roles where decisions are made and innovation happens.
Globally, women make up just 20–32% of the energy workforce. In renewables, it edges closer to 32%, but in oil and gas, women hold only about one-fifth of roles with even fewer sitting at the decision-making table.
According to the International Energy Agency, just 17.3% of senior leadership positions in the global energy sector are occupied by women. Though African-specific data is limited, that number is likely even lower.
However, it’s not for lack of talent. Africa boasts the highest proportion of female STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) graduates in the world, with an incredible 47% of Africa’s STEM graduates being women. This means that across the continent, brilliant women are entering STEM fields, driving innovation and reshaping communities but the energy industry still hasn’t caught up.
As the world shifts toward cleaner, greener power, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to do things differently—to reimagine the future of energy, and to redefine who leads it. New roles and industries are being created that have the potential to be more inclusive and equitable from the outset.
Unfortunately, current trends suggest that we risk recreating the same old inequalities in newer, greener packaging. This is why there is a growing movement to shift the narrative. This is a moment for women to claim space and lead.
Across Africa, women-led clean energy startups like WidEnergy Africa, Easy Solar and Solar Sister are emerging to address the energy gap that has left 520 million people on the continent living in the dark. They’re training women to lead in solar innovation, powering communities and opening doors for thousands.
Mentorship programmes are bridging the gap between education and leadership. Networks are forming to amplify women’s voices in policy, innovation, and infrastructure. And the data is clear: companies with gender-diverse leadership are 15% more likely to outperform their peers.
A diverse energy sector isn’t just fairer, it’s smarter, stronger and more sustainable. When women lead, communities thrive.
Come and be part of the revolution and the conversation. Register now for WomenIN Energy at Enlit Africa 2025, happening 20–22 May at the CTICC in Cape Town.
The energy transition needs your voice, your ideas and your leadership. So, why wait? African women have long played a defining role in shaping the course of history. Though often overlooked, their impact stretches far beyond traditional roles as wives and mothers. They have been leaders, traders, freedom fighters, warriors and visionaries.
From Queen Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba (modern-day northern Angola), who resisted Portuguese colonisation in the 17th century, to the courageous women of the Aba Women’s Riots in Nigeria in 1929, African women have challenged oppression, defied expectations and led movements for change.
The evolution of African women’s history is deeply intertwined with the evolution of the continent itself. For centuries, African societies have been shaped by the resilience, intellect and leadership of women.
Progress in leadership and equality
In honour of Women’s History Month, WomenIN celebrates the strides African leadership has made in building societies that prioritise gender equality. One remarkable example is Rwanda, where women hold more than half the seats in parliament, making it the world leader in female political representation. This milestone reflects a commitment to inclusive governance, proving that progress is possible when institutions actively support women’s leadership.
Another significant achievement is the adoption of the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights, which champions gender equality. Fifty-two African countries have joined this initiative, underscoring a collective commitment to advancing women’s rights across the continent. These victories signal a shift toward a future where women are not just included but are central to decision-making and development.
South Africa, too, has a rich history of influential women who shaped the nation’s progress. Charlotte Maxeke, a trailblazer in education and activism, was the first black South African woman to graduate with a university degree and later founded the Bantu Women’s League, a forerunner of the ANC Women’s League. Her work laid the foundation for the continued fight for women’s rights and leadership in South Africa.
Championing continued change
Despite these wins, African women still face formidable challenges. Gender-based violence, workplace discrimination, and the lack of political and economic power remain major barriers. Systemic inequalities continue to limit opportunities for women to rise in leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation. While laws and policies may change, cultural and institutional shifts take time and require collective effort.
At WomenIN, we are committed to being part of the solution. What began as an idea has evolved into a movement. WomenIN Gamingpaved the way for the series of WomenIN events that have created a platform for progressive conversation across industries, such as energy, mobility, digital, customer experience, green economy and mining.
In 2024, this culminated in the groundbreaking WomenIN Festival — a first-of-its-kind cross-sectoral event that brought together more than 300 trailblazing women and male allies. It was more than just an event—it was a movement designed to empower women, foster shared solutions and drive inclusive growth.
WomenIN continues to build on this momentum, ensuring that women in business, technology, leadership and beyond have the tools, networks, and platforms to thrive.
We believe that history is not just about the past; it is about what we choose to do right now. The fight for an equal and inclusive future is ongoing and each of us has a role to play. Whether you are a leader, an entrepreneur, an innovator or an ally, your actions today will shape the world for generations to come.
Let’s not just celebrate history; let’s make history, together. Friday, 21 March marks South Africa’s annual Human Rights Day, a day dedicated to honouring the sacrifices made in the fight for freedom, justice and equality. It serves as both a commemoration of our past struggles and a call to action for the continued pursuit of human rights for ALL.
South Africa is widely considered to have one of the most progressive and transformative constitutions in the world. However, the reality tells a different story as the uphill battle for equality persists, and women still face systemic oppression, discrimination and violence.
Despite having made great strides in terms of human rights, South Africa still ranks 18th out of 146 countries for its relatively high gender gap index score of 0.79.
This underscores a need for urgent change in the country. Women in South Africa still endure tragically high rates of gender-based violence and deepening workforce inequality.
A 2024 report by Stats SA revealed a stark economic reality: women in South Africa continue to shoulder the burden of unemployment and earn an estimated 23-35% less than men for the same work. In other words, women receive R72.44 for every R100 a man earns for the same job.
Yet, research consistently shows that gender diversity in the workplace benefits everyone. Reports have shown that companies that employ more women see higher employee retention and satisfaction, stronger financial performance, and improved teamwork, communication and innovation. Therefore, investing in women is not just a moral obligation; it is an economic and social necessity.
Women are not asking for special treatment; they just want to have FUNdamental rights — the same rights that men have always been afforded without question. The right to safety, equal pay, bodily autonomy and the freedom to thrive should not be privileges granted under certain conditions but basic human rights that are respected and upheld every day.
As we observe Human Rights Day this year, we must acknowledge and celebrate the progress we have made since the fall of apartheid. But we must also recognise that true equality remains out of reach for many women in South Africa. Human rights cannot be fully realised until women’s rights are no longer up for debate.
Let this Human Rights Day be a reminder that the strength of a nation lies in the freedom and empowerment of its women. Wathint’ umfazi, wathint’ imbhokodo – you strike a woman, you strike a rock.
Rezan Ibishukcu
Growth Director
Insider
Meet Rezan: A Visionary Leader Transforming Tech and Empowering the Next Generation
With nearly a decade of experience in the FMCG and Tech industries, Rezan is a trailblazer in transforming digital landscapes across Africa and the Middle East. As the Growth Director at Insider, a leading marketing technology company, she has driven significant growth, spearheaded industry-changing projects, and passionately advocated for diversity and inclusion. Born in Turkey and inspired by the transformative power of technology, Rezan has not only led initiatives that revolutionize businesses but has also contributed to over 100 social projects, empowering women and teaching coding to underprivileged communities.
Her leadership, both at Insider and previously at Procter & Gamble, challenges the status quo in male-dominated industries, paving the way for the next generation of women in tech. Rezan’s story is one of innovation, empowerment, and a relentless drive to create positive change.
Dive into Rezan’s journey and her inspiring thoughts in our exclusive Q&A:
What advice do you have for young women aspiring to make a difference in digital & tech?
Ever noticed how call centers always use female voice assistants? That’s because a woman’s voice is not only powerful but also more pleasant to hear. 🙂 So, don’t be afraid to speak up. The tech world needs fresh perspectives, and yours is valuable.
What inspired you to pursue a career in digital/tech?
Growing up in Turkey, I saw how tech could transform lives. That pushed me to join a tech company where innovation can make lives easier.
Creating a positive impact is a core value not just for me, but also for my company, Insider.
Last year, we launched 100 social projects from teaching coding to assisting women from underprivileged areas to join the workforce.
What does breaking barriers and bias mean to you on Women’s Month?
Breaking barriers and bias is about flipping the script—ensuring identity and success are not mutually exclusive.
For me, it meant succeeding in a male-dominated industry. Now, it’s about going beyond that—paving the way for younger generations, so they can achieve even more than I did.
It’s about making sure the path is a little smoother for those who follow, so they can reach new heights without the same obstacles.
If you could be a superhero, who would you be? I’m a fan of Shuri from Black Panther—because who wouldn’t want to be a tech genius saving the world? She’s creative, smart, and a leader who uses tech for good. That’s exactly how I see the future of tech. What is one quote or mantra you live by and why? “Empower others, and you empower yourself.” This hits home for me because real leadership isn’t just about your own success; it’s about lifting others as you rise. Know of a phenomenal women doing amazing work that you would like to shine a spotlight on, this could even be you. If so, please send an email to nazlee.fredericks@wearevuka.com.
Johanna Horz
Chief of Staff and Director of Strategy and Emerging Business
Wetility
Meet Johanna Horz: The Visionary Behind Wetility’s Strategy and Growth. Discover Her Journey and Insights on Achieving Sustainable Energy Solutions.
Johanna Horz serves as Wetility’s Chief of Staff and Director of Strategy and Emerging Business. In her role, she ensures strategic alignment across the company, leads strategic initiatives, and incubates new business opportunities. Johanna holds deep expertise in business growth strategy, intelligence and anti-corruption investigations and international development projects.
Prior to joining Wetility, Johanna worked at international risk and business intelligence firms, where she led complex anti-bribery and corruption (ABC) and anti-money laundering (AML) investigations focused on African business, infrastructure, and power sectors. From 2016 to 2018, Johanna was a key figure at a leading women’s empowerment NGO, where she managed a girls’ health and education project in Sierra Leone. Additionally, she served as an electoral observer during the 2017 presidential elections in Somaliland.
As a trailblazer in the energy sector, what do you believe are the most critical factors for achieving sustainable and inclusive energy solutions in our cities?
Bridging gender gaps and integrating diverse perspectives are crucial for an inclusive energy transition. Women often face higher energy poverty due to lower incomes and more single-parent households. For instance, in South Africa, female-headed households make up about 40% of the population and often struggle with solar adoption. At Wetility, we address this by innovating our credit screening process. Our advanced financing risk approach allows greater inclusion than typical asset-agnostic institutions, helping to improve access to clean energy.
What advice do you have for young women aspiring to make a difference in the energy sector and overcome gender-related barriers in their careers?
The renewable energy sector is a crucial industry for the future that I encourage all young people to enter. My advice for young women entering this exciting space specifically, is to keep going and own your place. Energy impacts all our lives, yet whilst women make up 40% of the global renewable energy workforce, less than half hold senior roles. If someone can do it, then why not you. So be bold as an energy producer, policymaker, or leader. Have fun, be brave and shape a sustainable future for everyone.
What is one quote or mantra you live by and why?
One mantra that I try to live by is “decide and live”. We can often get stuck in paralysis of analysis, be deterred by setbacks or unable to have faith that overcoming the hurdles we see is possible. It is true as well that achieving Wetility’s vision of sustainable energy independence for everyone is indeed difficult. However, nothing ever changed without someone starting. So – wake up with determination, surround yourself with wonderful people, both professionally and personally, and go for it.
How has the way you have grown up influenced the woman you are today?
I grew up slightly unorthodoxly and was constantly moving cities and countries. This experience taught me the importance of deep personal connections and exposed me to many beautiful adventures, people, and experiences that the world has to offer. However, I also witnessed significant disparities, injustices and discrimination first hand, many of them gender-based. These experiences instilled in me a strong sense of justice, perseverance, and restlessness to ensure that women are heard, respected and never sidelined. This understanding drives much of what I do today.
“Decide and live, wake up with determination, surround yourself with wonderful people, both professionally and personally, and go for it.” – Johanna Horz
Know of a phenomenal women doing amazing work that you would like to shine a spotlight on, this could even be you. If so, please send an email to nazlee.fredericks@wearevuka.com. 
