One of the most exciting prospects for innovation and sustainable energy development is the global shift to green hydrogen, and women are increasingly showing interest in this field. The establishment of the Women in Green Hydrogen Africa Chapter enabled us to include more and more women from African countries into the network.
Committed hydrogen professionals in South Africa, Namibia and Kenya have pushed the Africa Chapter forward in the past year. These countries have actively supported and encouraged the involvement of African women in this transformative industry, facilitating their inclusion in a growing global network. This has been seen through the participation of the Third First Lady of Namibia, Mrs Monica Geingos and the Minster of Energy of Belgium, Hon Tinne Van der Straten, who not only attended the launch of the WiGH Africa Chapter but also gave speeches that encouraged unity and female leadership in the green hydrogen sector.
A series of networking events across the continent provided a platform for women to connect, share insights, and engage in meaningful discussions on topics related to green hydrogen. The launch of the WiGH Africa Chapter in Namibia, in September 2024 was a significant event for women interested in green hydrogen across Africa. As part of the Chapter’s launch, WiGH Africa has been instrumental in inviting women from various African countries to register in the WiGH Expert Database, helping to promote their visibility to event organisers as potential speakers on the topic.
At these events, more women showed interest in joining the network and advancing the green hydrogen revolution. Conversations highlighted the need for greater women representation and emphasised the importance of inclusivity in driving innovation and progress in the industry. This reflects growing enthusiasm among women in Africa to contribute to the green hydrogen economy.
The women who sought to join the WiGH Expert Database received dedicated support from WiGH Africa team members, ensuring an easy registration and integration process. This collaborative effort underscores WiGH Africa chapter’s unwavering commitment to empowering women across Africa. By providing personalised assistance, WiGH Africa not only facilitated access to the Expert Database but also reinforced its objective to offer women opportunities like the WiGH Mentorship Program and participating in panel discussions or as speakers and moderators at events that allows them to connect and expand their professional network.
The sponsorship of mentees from the 2024/2025 round of the Mentorship Program to attend a WiGH networking event proved to be a valuable experience, offering them the opportunity to actively participate and share their personal journeys. This initiative provided exposure to potential opportunities and created space for continued mentorship, fostering further personal and professional growth for the mentees involved. At the one-year anniversary of the WiGH Africa Chapter, which we aim to celebrate during the upcoming Africa Global Hydrogen Summit from 9 to 11 September 2025 in Windhoek, Namibia, we look forward to showcasing the growing number of African women who have joined the WiGH network.
Want to join WiGH Expert Database?
As the green hydrogen sector continues to grow and evolve, the WiGH Africa chapter remains committed to ensuring women’s participation. For African women interested in joining the WiGH Expert Database and becoming part of this network of like-minded women committed to shaping the future of sustainable development, the WiGH Africa chapter encourages you to reach out and get involved. If you are passionate about green hydrogen and want to be part of the network, please contact viaksha.mohabir@giz.de and ndeshiway@gmail.com, they will be happy to assist you in registering and provide more information on how to become a part of the WiGH network.
Impressions of the WiGH Africa Chapter
Copyright by Women in Green Hydrogen