BY MBONO MDLULI
EZULWINI – The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy celebrated the achievements of women in the energy sector during the inaugural Gender In Energy Awards held at Royal Villas in Ezulwini.
The event recognised over 20 women for their significant contributions to improving the energy industry in the country, thereby enhancing the lives of many citizens. The 20 women also include interns who were attached in various energy companies in the country. These young women are students in various tertiary institution in the country.
Principal Energy Officer Candy Stromvig was given a standing ovation for having come up with the concept of recognizing women in the energy sector. Stromvig was also described by Jumbo Khumalo, who was directing the proceedings of the event, as having played a vital role in making the historic event a success.
Another woman who was strongly recognised was Dr Phindile Masangane, who now works for Sasol in South Africa. She was born and raised in Eswatini, having done her training at the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) among other institution. Dr Masangane is a cover girl of a magazine known as ‘Energy Voices,’ which was unveiled by Minister Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, together with Stromvig.
Key Highlights of the Event
– Ministerial Presence: The event was attended by Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, who represented the Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, Prince Lonkhokhela. Other notable attendees included Senator Stukie Motsa and Member of Parliament Ray Dlamini, both of whom were involved in the ministry’s portfolio committees.
– Attendance: Approximately 100 guests, including both men and women, gathered to honour the remarkable achievements of the women recognised at the event.
– Inspirational Speech: Minister Mkhonta-Simelane delivered an inspiring speech, emphasising the importance of empowering young girls in rural areas to pursue careers in engineering and energy. She stated that the audience should imagine a young girl growing up in a rural village, observing her mother cooking over an open fire and wondering why electricity seemed like a luxury only found in cities. Fast forwarding ten years, she described this girl as now being an engineer designing solar systems to bring power to homes like hers. The Minister highlighted that this young girl represented the very reason for the gathering, expressing that it was not just about energy, but about empowerment and ensuring that the next generation of women not only uses energy but leads in creating it. Her powerful message received a thunderous round of applause.
Acknowledgements and Sponsors
The event was made possible through the support of various sponsors, with special recognition given to:
– Main Partner: UNDP, acknowledged for their ongoing support and partnership in development initiatives.
– Platinum Sponsors: Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) and Standard Bank, both of which had shown commitment to supporting the energy sector.
– Gold Sponsors: Included organisations such as the Eswatini Energy Regulatory Authority (ESERA) and the Eswatini Environment Authority.
– Silver Sponsor: MTN, along with other partners, contributed to the event’s success.
Conclusion
The Gender In Energy Awards not only celebrated the achievements of women in the energy sector but also highlighted the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders to foster gender equality and empowerment in the industry. The event marked a significant step towards recognising and promoting the role of women in shaping the future of energy in the country.
