In collaboration with Lean in Equity & Sustainability, AOW: Investing in African Energy has announced the 2025 edition of the Top 50 Pan-African Female Leaders in Energy Power List, celebrating African women who are shaping the continent’s energy future.
According to a statement by the AOW, the Power List honours the achievements of these women and highlights their commitment to the collective momentum driving Africa’s energy transformation.
The 2025 list honours an exceptional group of 50 women – leaders and changemakers – from 20 African countries, with South Africa (10), Nigeria (8) and Ghana (5) with the most representatives.
“This year’s cohort of phenomenal women exemplifies what it means to lead with impact, purpose, and resilience in one of Africa’s most critical sectors, energy. From engineers to executives, policy shapers to entrepreneurs, these trailblazers are powering Africa’s energy future and paving bold paths for generations to come,” the statement read.
Notable names on the list include the Special Adviser to the Nigerian President on Energy, Olu Arowolo Verheijen; Shalmaa Kouta, Executive General Manager, Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Egypt; Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, CEO, Environmental Protection Agency, Ghana; H.E Lerato Mataboge, African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy; Nair de Sousa, Director for Energy Sustainability – LCT (Angola); among others.
“This is not just a celebration, it’s a movement,” the statement further read, adding that the Power list is not only a recognition, but a call to action “to challenge the status quo, invest in equity, and to accelerate systemic change.”
“We are exceptionally proud to spotlight these leaders who are breaking barriers, shaping inclusive policy, and championing sustainable development across the continent. Their courage, brilliance, and dedication light the way toward a more resilient, just, and empowered energy sector,” it added.
“To every woman featured – we see you, we honour you, and we thank you.”
On the significance of the Power List, the Co-Founder & Chair Advisory Board, Lean In Equity & Sustainability, Lamé Verre, noted that, “In the words of Dolly Parton: If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, then you are an excellent leader.”
Now in its fifth year, the Power List celebrates African women leaders in energy, who are not only breaking glass ceilings, but also contributing to sustainable development, energy access, and shaping inclusive policy across the continent.
The full 2025 Top 50 Pan-African Female Leaders in Energy Power List can be viewed here.
