Panel Discussion (from left to right): Ms Esmare Coetzee (Cape Agulhas Local Municipality), Ms Ntombizodwa Princess Msomi (Emalahleni Local Municipality), Ms Zanele Hakamela (South African- German Energy Programme) and Ms Simisha Pather-Elias (Sustainable Energy Africa)
As the year draws to a close, we relive a highlight for women in the energy sector. Sustainable Energy Africa (SEA), in partnership with the South African German Energy Programme (SAGEN), hosted an inspiring event to celebrate and explore the role of women in Municipal Energy Management Systems (MEMS) and energy efficiency in the public sector in South Africa. The event, hosted in Gqeberha on 13 November 2024, was part of the MEMS exchange workshop which brought together municipalities undertaking MEMS to highlight challenges, celebrate the achievements of women, and emphasise the need for a more inclusive future in energy management.
The evening opened with a thought-provoking presentation by Zanele Hakamela, a Technical Advisor from the South African- German Energy Programme (SAGEN), who coordinates gender and capacity building activities. She highlighted the critical importance of gender equity in the workplace. Hakamela outlined existing policies and support mechanisms aimed at fostering inclusivity and emphasized mentoring’s pivotal role in empowering women. She called for strengthened government mandates and workplace support structures to ensure women not only participate but thrive in the energy sector.
Insights from the Panel Discussion
A key highlight of the event was the panel discussion, featuring notable figures such as Ntombizodwa Princess Msomi, a Metering and Protection Manager from Emalahleni Local Municipality and Esmare Coetzee, Principal Technician: Project Management/technical support from Cape Agulhas Local Municipality. Moderated by Simisha Pather-Elias of SEA, the discussion delved into the personal and professional experiences of the panelists, offering insights into the evolving landscape for women in the sector.
Event in progress: A session facilitated by Yolisa Majali.
Ms Ntombizodwa Princess Msomi shared her experience leading a groundbreaking project that retrofitted 1,000 streetlights and 200 high-mast lights, achieving significant energy and cost savings for her municipality. Despite facing skepticism due to traditional gender roles, Msomi demonstrated resilience and leadership, earning respect through clear communication and impactful results.
Ms Esmare Coetzee emphasized the importance of intentional policies and strategies to advance women’s inclusion in energy management. She advocated for structured mentorship programs and training initiatives, which she credited with helping women confidently enter leadership roles and participate in high-level discussions.
Both panelists highlighted the transformative power of mentorship and training in breaking barriers and fostering a more inclusive energy sector. In addition, Ms Philistas Khumalo, a workshop participant from the Energy Efficiency Public Buildings and Infrastructure Programme noted that women should take control of their careers and not wait for opportunities to be handed to them. “To the young women in the room” she advised, “take your place in the industry and do not cower whenever there are opportunities to lead.” She further asserted, “You should not expect others to elevate you. Those who are brilliant and intelligent should not be shy and hide their brilliance. They should stand out and shine so that others can see them as good examples to emulate”
The event underscored the achievements of women in MEMS while recognizing the hurdles that remain. It called for sustained efforts in policy development, capacity-building, and mentorship to ensure gender equity in energy management. Through shared experiences and collective commitment, the event set the stage for continued progress and empowerment.
SEA and SAGEN’s initiative is a testament to the importance of creating spaces for dialogue and collaboration, where women’s contributions are celebrated and challenges addressed. Events like these are crucial for building a sustainable, inclusive energy future where diverse perspectives drive innovation and success.
