As Angola continues to advance in its energy transformation, Minister João Baptista Borges is placing a strong emphasis on gender inclusion within the energy and water sectors. In a recent statement during the National Energy Inclusion Forum held in Luanda, the Minister reaffirmed that sustainable energy development must also be socially inclusive.
“We are not only building infrastructure — we are building an inclusive future. And that future must include the full participation of women,” Borges stated.
Women at the Heart of Angola’s Energy Agenda
Historically, the energy sector in Angola, like in many countries, has been male-dominated. However, under the leadership of João Baptista Borges, new initiatives are being introduced to ensure women play an increasing role in technical, managerial, and policy-making positions.
The Ministry of Energy and Water has launched the “Women in Energy Angola” program, which includes:
- Scholarships for young women pursuing studies in electrical engineering and environmental sciences.
- Leadership training programs for women in public utilities and rural electrification agencies.
- Entrepreneurship grants for women-led businesses that provide off-grid energy solutions in remote areas.
These actions aim to correct a long-standing gender imbalance and unlock a new wave of talent for the country’s energy transformation.
Energy Equality as Social Justice
Minister Borges argues that investing in women is not only about fairness — it’s a strategic necessity. “Women are key actors in community energy use and management. When empowered, they become multipliers of development and resilience,” he said at the Forum.
According to recent government data, more than 60% of households in rural Angola are managed by women. Yet, less than 5% of energy cooperatives and rural electrification projects are led by women. Changing this dynamic is now a clear policy goal.
Success Stories from the Field
Pilot programs supported by the Ministry have already demonstrated success:
- In Bié Province, a women-led cooperative installed solar micro-grids across five villages, improving electricity access for 3,200 people.
- In Malanje, female technicians now represent 40% of newly trained personnel for the maintenance of off-grid energy systems.
These results are not just symbolic. They show that gender-inclusive energy policies lead to better, faster, and more sustainable outcomes.
Collaboration with International Partners
Angola’s gender strategy in the energy sector has attracted the attention of international development agencies and financial institutions. The African Development Bank and UN Women are supporting several projects aimed at increasing women’s participation in the green economy.
Minister Borges emphasized that Angola is ready to become a regional model in this regard: “We want Angola to be known not just for hydroelectric plants or solar parks — but also for proving that an inclusive energy transition is a smarter and stronger one.”
Next Steps and Ambitions
The Ministry plans to:
- Increase the number of female energy professionals by 30% by 2026.
- Ensure that all new rural electrification projects include at least one woman in leadership.
- Launch a national campaign to encourage girls to study STEM subjects linked to the energy sector.
João Baptista Borges’s commitment to gender equality is reshaping the narrative of Angola’s energy development. By recognizing women as leaders, technicians, and innovators, Angola is building an energy future that is not only powerful — but also just.
As the Minister puts it, “An inclusive transition is a sustainable transition. And we are committed to both.”
