BY PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
MBABANE – Through its Energy Department, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy, convened a diverse group of stakeholders for a workshop focused on Gender in Energy Policy.
Candy Stomvig, the Principal Energy Officer, officially opened the event, representing the Director of Energy.
The workshop addressed critical issues concerning gender and energy access and usage.
During her opening remarks, Stomvig highlighted the vital role that energy plays in everyday life while also mentioning the ongoing challenges faced by families in rural areas in accessing affordable and sustainable energy.
Stomvig outlined the workshop’s objectives, stressing the importance of addressing gender disparities and creating opportunities within the energy sector. She also shared an example of a young woman who had established a solar charging station in her community, illustrating how entrepreneurial efforts can meet local energy needs and foster innovation.
In her speech, Stomvig raised several questions to guide the discussions.
She urged stakeholders to consider how energy policies could be better adapted to meet the diverse needs of people of different genders. She emphasized the necessity of developing inclusive and equitable policies that ensure everyone has access to clean and affordable energy.
Stomvig also highlighted the need to empower more women to take on leadership roles and entrepreneurial ventures in the energy sector.
She noted that increasing female representation in leadership would lead to more balanced decision-making and inspire a new generation of female innovators.
She further called for collective action from government, the private sector, NGOs, and local communities to achieve these goals. She said collaboration was essential to overcoming challenges and realising the full potential of the energy sector in driving sustainable development.
Through the workshop, the Ministry aims to identify practical solutions that ensure equal benefits from advancements in energy while encouraging women to pursue leadership and business opportunities in the sector.
The event, according to Stomvig, offers a platform to build partnerships, share insights, and create a roadmap for a more inclusive and sustainable energy future for Eswatini.
The workshop is scheduled to conclude tomorrow, with additional participants from the private sector expected to join and contribute to the discussions.