Oscars of Energy Heroes: Crafting Tomorrow’s Legacy Winners 2024
Oscars of Energy Heroes: Crafting Tomorrow’s Legacy Winners 2024
Saving trees while making stories, call it eco-editing with flair.
Editor’s Cut
We are excited to announce the relaunch of Watts Up Africa Magazine— the premier lifestyle publication dedicated to the energy landscape in Africa. Our unwavering mission is to recognize and celebrate the brilliant minds and fearless innovators who are driving change through solar panels, windmills, oil, gas, and groundbreaking technologies. They are transforming our communities, bringing smiles and tears as they reshape the energy landscape across the continent.
The energy sector is currently experiencing a profound transformation. The recent freezing of U.S. aid has disrupted global markets, while the resurgence of oil and gas presents new challenges that require our attention. Yet, the resilience and ingenuity found within our industry will propel us forward.
In this edition, we are thrilled to share the judges’ verdict for the Oscars of Energy Awards 2024. We will provide valuable insights into the selection process and highlight the inspiring stories of the winners— stories that showcase resilience and innovation, vital for the bright future of our sector. As we gear up for the 10th Anniversary of the Africa Queen of Energy Awards, and the 2nd Africa Renewable Energy Awards, our commitment to spotlighting the narratives that will shape the future of energy has never been stronger
James Ngomeli
Chief Publisher & Editor Publisher & Editor
THE TEAM
James Ngomeli
Creative & Layout
Kelvin Mabonga
Contributors
All 2024 winners
Ivy Naanyu
The Snap King Who Put Solar Swagger on the Map
of Energy Conference 2024 -
on the visionary voices Inspiring, Lilian: The Solar “Siren” Smashing Research Ceilings National Energy Policy 2025 - 2034 by Dr. Faith Odongo, DirectorMinistry of Energy The Tech mastermind who slays Wires and Words
a Legacy of Green Pride across Africa Gender Equality: The Volt That Powers Energy’s Future
Maestro Electrifying Africa’s Green Dream
The Solar ‘Mama’ who’s Raising a Renewable Family KenGen’s “Jenga” Juggernaut: Marketing Muscle Powers a Green Revolution
Voices, Lasting Impact: Women WIL’s Award-Winning Push for Women in Energy
Charging Phones and Dreams, One Stylish Step at a Time
Dennis Onyango Otiento’s award-winning shot, earning him Photographer of the Year 2024, fuses fashion and renewable energy in a single, breathtaking frame. Shot from a daring overhead angle, it captures a model striding through a bustling cityscape. His bold red coat and sleek black trousers pop against the urban blur, but the genius lies atop his head: a stylish fedora with a hidden solar panel.
A thin wire snakes to his phone, charging it mid-step, a seamless blend of sustainability and swagger. The image’s striking composition draws the eye from the vibrant coat to the subtle tech, spotlighting renewable energy’s everyday potential. Its crisp contrast and innovative vision merging style with solar power; stunned judges, proving clean energy can thrive beyond rooftops. Otieno’s lens didn’t just snap a picture; it captured a bold, award-winning future.
Dennis receiving the Photographer of the Year Award from Kaluki Kyalo during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
“Unite now, stakeholders, let’s engage and shape Kenya’s bold 2030 energy policy”Dr. Faith Odongo, Director Renewable Energy
Kenya Renewable Energy Director at Ministry of Energy
Unveils discussion on the 2025–2034 Draft and calls for Public Participation and engagement on the draft
The Director of Renewable Energy at the Ministry of Energy presented the draft National Energy Policy 2025–2034 aspects to a fired-up crowd of industry heads and innovators at the Oscars of Energy. The Director dubbed it “a revolution, not a rulebook” and made one thing crystal clear: this isn’t just their plan—it’s ours, calling on every Kenyan to dive in as a stakeholder and shape it.
The vision?
A Kenya where every home blazes with light and every business thrives on clean energy by 2030. “This is our heartbeat,” the Director boomed, spotlighting plans to blanket rural and urban zones with geothermal, solar, and wind power. She took aim at the 69% of households cooking with firewood, promising LPG, electric stoves, and biofuels for cleaner air. But here’s the kicker: the draft’s out, and your voice is crucial in refining it.
Stakeholders Unit!! Shape the 2030 Energy Dream Businesses received a compelling proposition. The Director presented the potential for reduced energy
costs, lucrative renewable projects such as solar farms, and the opportunity to earn carbon credits. “Publicprivate partnerships and green financing will be the driving force,” she declared, encouraging companies to seize the opportunity and unlock new markets as power spreads. She emphasized the importance of all Kenyans contributing to this draft, ensuring it paves the way for everyone’s future.
“This isn’t about compliance, it’s about courage,” the Director insisted, framing energy as Kenya’s ticket to a thriving, sustainable tomorrow. “Stakeholders, this is your shot to mold it.”
Your Voice Shapes Kenya’s Energy Future
She called upon the Media houses to amplify this message: Kenya’s energy narrative needs co-authors— every citizen, every idea is significant. Take the draft, speak out, and let’s power this nation together. The media’s role in disseminating this information is crucial, and their contribution will be instrumental in shaping the future of our energy landscape.
Logan Christi Hambrick (Independent Non-Executive Director) KPLC
KPLC’s Queens Light Up the Night: Three Wins and a Promise to Wow Again!
Celebrating the Women Who Power Progress
At the recent awards ceremony, Mrs. Logan Christi Hambrick, Director at Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC), set the stage ablaze with a speech celebrating the company’s gender mainstreaming journey.
“At Kenya Power, we value the women who drive us forward,” she beamed, spotlighting their exceptional contributions to the energy sector. With pride radiating, she proudly talked about KPLC’s haul of three awards— proof their queens are rewriting the rules of excellence.
A Triple Crown Moment that Inspires
Mrs. Logan didn’t just bask in the wins; she ignited the room with encouragement. “Queens in energy, keep going—the sky’s the limit,” she rallied, urging resilience and self-belief. She called the day “inspiring,” soaking in stories from fellow winners in renewable energy. KPLC’s triumphs showcased a culture that shares its good and lifts everyone higher.
Back Next Year to Steal the Show
With three trophies in tow, Mrs. Logan threw down the gauntlet: “Next year, Kenya Power will sweep the categories.” It’s not just a win—it’s a vow to return bolder, brighter, and unstoppable.
The Solar Queen Who Cooked
Up a Game-Changer
Judges Bow to a Woman’s Vision That Freed Kenya’s Kitchens
Joy Kwamboka didn’t just win the 2024 Innovation Award, she dazzled the judges with a solar-powered institutional cook stove that’s pure genius. In Kenya, where 678,000 schools and 32,000 hospitals choked on firewood’s cost and smoke, she saw a crisis begging for a woman’s touch. Soaring prices after the logging ban had spiked tuition, shoving 342,300 kids out of school yearly. Joy’s answer? A patented stove that traps sunlight in lithium-ion batteries, powering local designs that ditch wood for good. The judges saw a spark: costs slashed, health restored, and smart meters tracking every eco-win.
Blaze of Brilliance: A
Stove That Stunned the Panel
Blaze of Brilliance: A Stove That Stunned the Panel
This redefines red lipstick with cuttingedge innovation. Joy’s stoves, humming in 243 schools, serve free meals to 307,253 students, slashing dropout rates by 75%. The judges’ jaws dropped at her pay-as-
Nyawara Girls High School cooks undergoing training on how to use the solar cookstove.
you-go model. The underfunded schools now cook clean without breaking the bank. She proved women can engineer solutions that stick, and they handed her the crown.
Women Unleashed: Powering Jobs, Not Just Ovens
Joy flipped the script on cooking’s old boys’ club. Where firewood once locked women out, her stoves opened doors to 60 now wield spatulas, 35 more master installation and upkeep. Schools save $10,000 a year, building libraries and labs instead of buying logs. The judges saw a woman lifting other women, proving sustainability’s got a fierce feminine edge.
Green Glory: Trees Saved, Futures Secured
Her win’s a love letter to the planet: 210,500 tons of trees stand tall, 330 metric tons of CO₂ vanish. Joy’s vision of accessible, scalable, unstoppable showed the judges a woman can lead the green charge. She’s not just an innovator; she’s a beacon, screaming to the world: women can, and do, change everything.
Gender Equality: The Volt That Powers Energy’s Future
Lonah Wanjama Electrifies Women in Energy Awards with a Call to Action
The Stark Truth: Jobs Are Booming, But Women Are at Risk At the Women in Energy Awards Conference, Mrs. Lonah Wanjama, Power Africa EECA’s GESI Manager, emphasized that: gender equality isn’t just a feel-good goal, it’s the key to unlocking universal energy access and fostering innovation. She didn’t sugarcoat it: with clean energy surging, over 80% of new jobs could stay trapped in male-dominated fields. “We’re at a crossroads,” she warned, “Without a gender-smart push, we’re locking women out and dimming our potential.”
Women Aren’t Just Users—They’re Builders of the Energy Future
Wanjama turned heads with Power Africa’s success story. “Women aren’t passengers; they’re in the driver’s seat,” she said, spotlighting how their leadership boosts profits, sparks innovation, and strengthens grids. She leaned on the hard truth: companies that bet on diversity win more significant ideas, better results. The International Labour Organization backs her up, a just transition could zap wage gaps and rewrite the rules. Her point? Inclusion isn’t charity; it’s a power surge.
The Blueprint for Change Is Now
She didn’t stop at inspiration. Wanjama laid out the fix: technical training, STEM doors cast wide, and mentorship on tap. “Governments, businesses step up,” she urged. “A workforce that looks like society builds energy for society.” She painted a future where women don’t just benefit—
they lead, innovate, and transform. “Sustainability without inclusion? It’s a blackout waiting to happen.”
The Charge: Light Up Tomorrow Together
Closing with fire, Wanjama rallied the crowd: “The energy future isn’t green unless it’s fair. Women must shape it and own it.” Her words crackled: this isn’t a sideline issue; it’s the current that’ll carry us forward. “Together,” she said, “we power a world where no one’s left in the dark. It’s up to us to light up tomorrow together.
“Sustainability without inclusion? It’s a blackout waiting to happen.”
Solar Dreams Ignite Change:
Ecobora’s Triumph
Joy Kwamboka’s Vision Fuels a Clean Energy Revolution
In Kenya’s rural heartlands, a quiet crisis brews: 7.5 million metric tonnes of trees vanish yearly to feed 65 million students, while 678,000 schools and institutions choke on smoky firewood. Joy Kwamboka, Ecobora’s Business Development Lead, turned this challenge into a beacon of hope, clinching the Innovation Award at the 2024 Africa Queen of Energy Awards. Her leadership in championing solar cook stoves has sparked a movement blending ingenuity with inspiration to uplift marginalized communities.
The Firewood Crisis: A Call to Action
For too long, Kenya’s rural schools and hospitals—like the 32,000 spending $10,000 annually on firewood battled rising costs and toxic smoke. A government logging ban doubled firewood prices, pushing tuition fees up and forcing 342,300 students to drop out yearly. Hunger gnawed deeper as 650,000 students skipped meals, trapped in a cycle of malnutrition and poverty. Joy saw the stakes: energy poverty wasn’t just environmental—it was personal.
Ecobora’s Solar Spark: A Game-Changer Enter Ecobora, a green energy trailblazer Joy helped propel. Their solar cook stoves powered by panels, stored in lithium-ion batteries, and converted to thermal energy—fry, steam, and boil food for 20 to 10,000 people. With sizes from 20 to 800 liters, these stoves run 24/7, even in rain, wiping out firewood use entirely. Joy’s brilliance shines in the pay-as-you-go model: schools pay just $2,000 per term, unlocking free meals for students while sensors track energy and emissions via IoT.
Joy’s Touch: Empowering Women, Breaking Barriers
Joy’s fingerprints are all over Ecobora’s impact. By replacing firewood, a man’s domain—with solar tech, she’s opened doors for women as cooks and technicians. Her vision drives a future where carbon credits fund more stoves, slashing acquisition costs. “This award isn’t just mine,” Joy says. “It’s for every woman lifting her community.” Her leadership has made Ecobora a symbol of scalable, inclusive change.
A Brighter Tomorrow: Lives Transformed
Today, 28 schools save $9,920 yearly, feeding 47,000 students with solarpowered meals. Ecobora’s stoves have spared 306,700 tons of trees and cut 330 tonnes of CO2e per school. Sixteen women hold direct jobs, with 72 more in support roles—proof Joy’s dream empowers beyond the kitchen. From crisis to triumph, her innovation is brewing a future where clean energy and hope rise together.
Oscars of Energy Conference 2024spotlight on the visionary voices
Dr. Faith Wandera OdongoDirector Renewable Energy, Ministry of Energy & Petroleum
Pius Musyimi WathomeE-Mobility Advisor (TVET, (GIZ) GmbH
Ruth Wambui WambuguMembership & Partnerships Officer CCAK
Dinesh TembhekarCEO
Martin ChombaChair, Petroleum Association of Kenya
Ismail SaumuProgramme Manager Kenya Innovation Climate Center
Fiona Magomere –Transmission Engineer Kenya Power
Julius Motaraki GM, Renewable Rentco Renewable Energy Company
Paul Mbuthi - Managing Director, Energy for Life Ltd
Faraaz CharaniaBest Energy CEO
George Mbugua - CEO Davis & Shirtliff
Kaluki KyaloWind Energy Expert
Alice Ngatia - Marketing and communication Manager, Schneider Electric
Mrs. Lonah Wanjama - GESI manager, Power Africa EECA
Logan Christi Hambrick (Independent Non-Executive Director) KPLC
Mary NjueCEO Epicenter Africa
Elly Odhiambo – CCAK
Margaret KuchioGeneral Manager Davis & Shirliff
Barry YangDirector, Zamdon Ltd. Kenya & Tanzania
Mr. Ashington Ngigi - CEO Integral Media Limited
ForumCiv’s PPDP: The Community Hug that Won Africa’s Heart
Olkaria’s Game-Changer Stole the Show with Soul and Smarts
In Olkaria, where renewable energy once sparked tension instead of trust, ForumCiv’s Public-Private Development Partnership (PPDP) Initiative swooped in like a warm embrace, clinching the Best Community Engagement Award. Partnered with the ILO and backed by Sweden’s Embassy, this project didn’t just tick boxes; it rewrote the rulebook, tackling poverty, exclusion, and skill gaps with a heart so big it left judges teary-eyed.
Voices Amplified: Giving Power Back to the People ForumCiv turned whispers into roars. Their structured dialogues; think community members, energy bigwigs, and government reps at one table handed locals a megaphone. Rights claimed, accountability demanded, and access to schools and services unlocked: this wasn’t engagement; it was empowerment. The judges swooned over a model where every voice mattered, setting a gold standard for community clout.
Jobs
and Joy: Building Lives, Not Just
Lines
Over 1,000 jobs bloomed for youth and women trained who for energy gigs, not sidelined. Water systems gushed, resource centers rose, healthcare hummed: ForumCiv didn’t just build infrastructure; they built hope. The judges saw lives lifted, not just stats, with vocational skills turning marginalized folks into renewable energy rockstars. Its impact you can feel, and it hit the panel right in the feels.
Trust Triumphs: The Blueprint That Blew Judges Away What sealed the deal? Trust, pure and simple. ForumCiv’s Community Action Plans synced energy projects with real needs, smashing barriers of doubt. Women, youth, even people with disabilities stepped into leadership and gender inclusivity wasn’t a buzzword; it was a battle cry. The judges couldn’t resist this rights-based brilliance, a benchmark so tight it’s now the bar every company should chase.
ForumCiv’s PPDP shines as more than a project, it’s a love letter to Olkaria’s people. Collaboration, inclusion, and raw human connection won the day, proving sustainable energy thrives when communities aren’t just along for the ridem, and they’re driving. Judges fell hard, and the world should follow.
Titus Kuria of ForumCiv receiving the Best Community Engagement Award from Martin Chomba (right) Chairman, Petroleum Association of Kenya during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
The Tech mastermind who slays Wires and Words
Judges Gushed; She commissioned the biggest Wind Farm while Blogging STEM subjects
Fiona Magomere is an engineer and a vibe, a 10-year storm of brilliance who snagged the Professional Award (Technical) with a grin and a grid. Her tale’s got the swag the judges couldn’t resist: a woman who wires up Africa’s energy future, spins blogs like gold, and inspires with every click. They saw a queen who communicates like a champ, and they bowed.
Wind Queen Crowned: Powering Africa’s Biggest Green Dream
Kicking off in 2012 with an Electrical Engineering degree, Fiona hit the ground running at Huawei, bossing site supervision with safety-first swagger. Then, at Kenya Power, she climbed to Senior Power System Control Engineer, flipping switches at the National Control Centre. Her crown jewel? Commissioning the Lake Turkana Wind Power Project— Africa’s largest wind farm. In 2023, Sweden tapped her for a global renewable energy program. Technical royalty? You bet.
Mic Drop Mentor: Dropping Knowledge, Lifting Ladies
Fiona’s not hoarding her genius, she’s spilling it. Her “African Energy Tales” blog breaks down energy like it’s a hot beat, vibing with pros and newbies alike. Through Gamma Energy and AWEE, she’s the mentor with the megaphone, schooling young women in STEM. The judges loved her crisp voice, clear, and calling others to rise. She’s rewriting the playbook.
Barrier-Busting Swagger: Rewriting Rules with Tech and Truth Integrity’s her jam. Fiona’s smashed gender walls at KETRACO, trained engineers, and rocked forums like the 3rd Annual Women in STEM Leadership Seminar. She’s proof women rule technical turf, pushing equity with every step. The judges saw a communicator who inspires, a leader who empowers and trailblazing STEM’s path with pure fire.
Fiona Magomere’s win isn’t luck, its skill, sass, and a big heart. She’s the real deal, and the energy world’s better for it.
Mic Drop! Mentor: Dropping Knowledge, Lifting Ladies
Fiona receiving the Professional Techincal Award during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
Fiona at the National Transmission Centre with former CS Energy Mr. Davis Chipchirchir
CDH Kenya: Legal Trailblazers Powering Kenya’s Renewable Future
The Legal Spark behind Kenya’s Green Energy Surge
In a world pivoting toward sustainability, CDH Kenya has claimed the Law Firm of the Year Award in Africa Renewable Energy Awards, cementing its status as a legal titan in Kenya’s clean energy surge. Their blend of policy influence, project mastery, and innovative solutions set them apart.
Shaping the Sector: Crafting Laws and Deals for Clean Energy
CDH Kenya has been a linchpin in building Kenya’s renewable energy framework. Partnering with policymakers and investors, they’ve shaped progressive laws; think power purchase agreements (PPAs), feed-in tariffs, and independent power producer (IPP) deals that unlock investment. Their legal prowess shines in mega-projects like solar farms, wind turbines, and geothermal plants. From due diligence to financing, their team navigates regulatory mazes, making them the go-to for developers eyeing Kenya’s green potential.
Beyond the Brief: Innovating Finance and Sustainability Financing clean energy can be a hurdle, but CDH Kenya turns obstacles into opportunities. They’ve pioneered green bonds, carbon credit deals, and publicprivate partnerships (PPPs), ensuring projects pencil out for investors. Their ESG (Environmental, Social,
and Governance) focus is unmatched; advising on impact assessments and global sustainability standards, they weave responsibility into every deal. Add their capacity-building efforts such as workshops, policy talks, and training. They’re not just winning cases; they’re strengthening the entire sector.
Their client list dazzles: multinationals, government bodies, and power producers all lean on CDH Kenya’s tailored solutions. Their litigation and arbitration wins in energy disputes further prove their mettle. This award isn’t just a trophy, it’s recognition of a firm that’s propelled Kenya’s renewable energy boom with expertise and heart.
CDH Kenya’s victory as Law Firm of the Year reflects their strategic impact: they don’t just practice law, they fuel progress. As Kenya races toward a cleaner future, they’re the legal engine driving it forward.
Energy Petroleum Regulatory Authority solar water heating study validation workshop where one of CDH’s partner, Clarice, was presenting findings of the legal review to stakeholders.
CDH team receiving the Law Firm of the Year Award from Jenny Flecher, CEO ARIYA
the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024,
FINERGY (left) during
Movenpick Nairobi
Betlydia: The Climate Rebel Droppin’ Beats, Not Degrees
Judges fell hard for this Student’s
Gutsy Green Glow
Betlydia Wamotho Kariuki’s not your average student, she’s a 20-something climate warrior who ditched the sidelines, grabbed her passion, and snagged the Student Award with pure fire. At Afrikarbon Consulting, this environmental science queen didn’t wait for a diploma to dive in. She’s auditing carbon, pushing renewables, and proving you don’t need a cap and gown to flip the energy game. The judges? They ate it up because of her courage to step out, placards in hand, screaming for change, won their hearts.
Policy Pop-Off: She’s Making Climate Moves, No Desk Needed
Betlydia’s not here for dusty textbooks, she’s out there turning policy into power. Her internship saw her slashing carbon footprints and boosting energy efficiency, making sustainability real for businesses and communities. She’s got blogs popping, socials buzzing, breaking down climate jargon so every kid on the block gets it. The judges saw a girl who is bridging the gap between big talk and bigger action with a fearless grin.
Hustle with Heart: Lifting the Underserved with Solar Soul
She’s hitting underserved streets, teaching carbon cuts and solar tricks, slashing electric bills for the overlooked. Her vibe? Empower, educate, elevate. The judges swooned over her grit with placards waving, she’s not dreaming of change; she’s handing out the tools for it.
Placard Power: Shouting Loud, Changing Now
With a voice that roars and a heart that bleeds green, Betlydia’s activism is electric. She’s rallying youth, sparking hope, showing you can chase what you love without a degree in the bag. Her win’s a neon sign: believe hard, move fast. She’s the funky future of climate action, proofing one bold soul can light up Africa’s green revolution.
Speaking at European Parliament - To advocate for corporate sustainability during the UN binding treaty on business and human rights.
Betlydia receiving the Student Award during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
The Rise of Africa Queen of Energy Award Programme
Africa Queen of Energy Awards
11 Award Winners across Africa
150 Nominations across aAfrica
Speakers from Nigeria, S.Africa, Cameroon, S.Sudan etc
Oscars of Energy
Inauguration of Africa
Renewable Energy Awards
427 Nominations
23 Award Winners
Julius Motaraki, General Manager Renewable Rentco Renewable Energy Company (Left) receiving the Financial Inclusion Award from Mary Njue, CEO Epicenter Africa during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi.
RENTCO: The Money Maestro Electrifying Africa’s Green Dream
A Financial Wizard’s Win Sparks a Cleaner, bolder Future
In Africa’s renewable energy frontier, where dreams of green power often dim under hefty costs and shaky risks, RENTCO Renewable Energy Limited has struck gold. Crowned with the Africa Financial Leadership & Inclusion Award, this trailblazer’s Customized Renewable Energy Infrastructure Leasing Model and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) have flipped the script, lighting up the Medium and Large Commercial & Industrial (C&I) sectors with hope and hustle.
Forget the old roadblocks; sky-high capital, tech confusion, jittery investors. RENTCO’s leasing magic sweeps them aside, letting businesses dive into solar and wind without a penny upfront. It’s not just a deal; it’s a dare to thrive sustainably, and companies are cashing in.
Cash Unlocked: Slashing Costs, Boosting Bottom Lines
Look at how Sasini PLC and Tebesonik Tea are slashing energy bills by up to 50%, funneling savings into growth. OLA Energy, once a toedipper, now dives deeper into renewables, all thanks to RENTCO’s financial finesse. Their model doesn’t just pay, it pays big, proving green can fatten wallets.
Risks Rewired: Turning Barriers into Bargains
With energy assessments tailored to each client, RENTCO teams up with banks, OEMs, and EPC pros for a seamless switch. Skill programs banish tech fears, while real-time dashboards dish out data like a financial crystal ball; energy tracked, savings stacked, efficiency locked. Risks? Rewritten as wins.
Power Paid Forward: Profits Meet Planet-Saving Grit
The numbers sing: thousands of CO₂ tons slashed, grids dodged, productivity soaring. RENTCO’s clients don’t just survive blackouts, they shine through them, their operations humming on reliable, renewable juice. It’s a triple crown; financial swagger, operational muscle, and a planet that breathes easier.
RENTCO’s tale is a thunderclap of pride. This isn’t just an award; it’s a roar across Africa’s energy landscape, proof that financial smarts can fuel a sustainable revolution. RENTCO isn’t waiting for the future; they’re funding it, one brilliant, green deal at a time.
The Teen Dreamer Painting the World with Purpose
Judges Melted for Her Soulful Service—No Wallet Required
At 19, Andreann Ndebu did not wait for a paycheck or a title, she rolled up her sleeves and sparked a movement. Now, clutching the 2024 Philanthropy/ Service Award, this dynamo proves philanthropy is not all about giving money; it’s about time, influence, and a heart that won’t quit. The judges didn’t just see a change maker; they saw a soul on fire, pouring passion into every corner she touches.
Chalk and Courage: Teaching Her Way to Transformation
It started simple, Andreann, chalk in hand, volunteering in crumbling public schools. That spark lit a blaze Uwezo Girl Up - her baby pushing girls into STEM. Partnering with UN Women, she got 50 young women, half from the margins, into a fully funded coding boot camp. No fat stacks needed, just grit and a vision for equity. The judges swooned over her hands-on hustle, turning classrooms into launch pads.
STEM Sisterhood: Lighting Up Lives with Love
Andreann’s empathy runs deep. She’s secured STEM scholarships for 60 Kibera girls and co-founded a feeding program for 25 Kangemi street kids, not with handouts, but with systems that stick. Her time’s her currency, and she spends it mentoring, dreaming, and doing. The judges saw beauty in her belief that “empowerment is not just a gift rather a fight, and she’s all in”.
Andreanne receiving the Philanthropy Award during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
Global Glow: Grassroots Grit Meets World Stages
This queen’s got range. Kenya’s lone female voice at the Russian Nuclear Summit, shaping sustainable energy at Saint Petersburg, she rocked the 13th Gas Forum and led a Transforming Education Post Summit that slashed junior high costs, all while planting seeds at home. With Uwezo Ustawi Foundation, she’s mentoring the next wave, locking in Rotary partnerships to keep the love alive.
Attended St Petersburg International gas forum where she represented Kenya as its sole female delegate
Andreanne participating in the African code initiative funded by UN WOMEN
Dinesh Tembhekar, CEO Lean Energy Solutions
Lean Energy Solutions: The Biomass
Bosses who Bagged Africa’s Big Win
Step inside the Project That’s Rewriting Clean Energy Rules
Lean Energy Solutions didn’t just win the Africa Renewable Outstanding Project Award, they earned it with a project so outstanding, it’s a wake-up call for every company still clinging to dirty fuel. Their Build, Own, Operate (BOO) model is the star, flipping industries from diesel and HFO to biomass brilliance. Clients pay only for steam, not promises, making clean energy a no-brainer. This isn’t just a win; it’s a blueprint for Africa’s future.
Fossil Fuels? Fired! Biomass Takes the Throne
Picture this: Lean Energy storms in, rips out fossil fuel boilers, and plants biomass-fired champs in their place. Watervale Investments Ltd (Moko) saw it happen; a
1TPH biomass boiler in just 24 months. It’s not a tweak; it’s a takeover, slashing carbon and proving sustainability isn’t a sideline but it’s the main event. Companies, take note: this is how you pivot to green without breaking a sweat.
Waste to Wow: Cash and Carbon Slashed
Here’s the magic: coffee husks, sugarcane bagasse, maize cobs, stuff once tossed and now fuel briquettes and pellets that hum cleaner than imported oil. Every ton saves $150 in foreign exchange, keeps Kenya’s cash home, and stops 1 ton of CO₂ dead in its tracks. Lean Energy’s turned trash into treasure, showing firms how to cut costs and emissions in one fell swoop. Jobs
Waste to Wow: Cash and Carbon Slashed
Aflame: Powering People, Not Just Plants
This isn’t just about steam, it’s about souls. Where fossil rigs needed one lone operator, biomass demands a crew: supervisors, workers, six casuals per shift. Producing 1 ton of briquettes? That’s 12 man-days of jobs. Lean Energy’s project doesn’t just light factories; it lights up lives, weaving economic muscle into every green move. It’s a win that screams opportunity.
Lean Energy Solutions’ story roars: their BOO brilliance is both outstanding and it’s essential. They’ve slashed emissions, saved millions, and sparked jobs, proving sustainability pays. Companies, this is your cue, Lean Energy’s leading, and the world’s watching.
Lean Energy team receiving the Africa’s Outstanding Project Award from Fiona Magomere during the Oscars of Energy Conference
Overview of the Eldas- Solar-PV diesel hybrid plant (315kW pv plant, 400kVA generator 476 kWh batteries)
Lilian: The Solar “Siren” Smashing Research Ceilings
Judges Cheered; Her Smile and Science are Kenya’s Green Secret Sauce
Lilian Kanana Kamanja is a researcher with a radiant force, proving passion and a killer smile can flip the world green. At the 2024 Africa Queen of Energy Awards, her techno-economic solar PV hybrid research snatched the Research Award, and the judges couldn’t stop grinning. As this was not shelfdust science rather a blazing trail of impact, grit, and a refusal to wait for permission to change lives.
Hybrid Heat: Research That’s Saving Millions
Lilian’s brainchild a hybridizing solar PV with diesel plants that slashes costs and CO₂ like a boss. Her AJERI-published study on Eldas Diesel Power Plant’s 315kW solar tweak saves Kenya $50 million yearly. Then there’s her IEEE Xplore gem, a grid-tied solar system at JKUAT-SAJOREC with a payback under nine years. The panel of judges saw cash and carbon crumble under her pen, proof that research can bankroll a revolution.
Globe-Trotting Grit: From Scholarships to Solar Sites
This queen’s hustle glows, winning the International Solar Alliance Scholarship, she jetted to IIT Delhi for a Master’s, soaking up global solar smarts. Back home, she’s boots-on-the-ground, running monthly site inspections at hybrid projects, rallying engineers and policymakers. From Rwanda’s IEEE Power Africa Conference to ISA workshops, her voice cuts through, turning papers into power. She’s the clear definition of beauty meets brains on a mission.
Hybrid
Heat: Research That’s Saving Millions
Queen’s Call: Leading Ladies to Energy’s Future
Lilian’s not hoarding the crown. As a Top 25 Under 40 in Energy star, she’s mentoring at Gamma Energy Group, sparking female engineers at Kenya Power. Her push for women in solar design and maintenance cracks open doors, while her policy forum flex embeds gender vibes in Kenya’s energy playbook. It was evident that she’s not just winning but also lifting.
Lilian’s story screams deserved glory. Her research doesn’t sit, it soars, saving millions, shaping futures, and showing the world a young queen’s passion can outshine the sun. The judges did not just award her, they crowned a game-changer who proves hard work and heart rewrite history.
Lilian kamanja receiving the Research Award from Barry Yang Country Director Kenya & Tanzania of Zamdon Ltd.
EABL Team receiving the Innovation Award from Alice Ngatia - Marketing and Communication Manager - Schneider Electric (left) during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
Brewing a Legacy of Green Pride across Africa
East African Breweries PLC: Pioneering a Sustainable Future with Biomass Innovation
From Barley to Biomass, a Victory That Warms Every Heart
In the ever-evolving landscape of Africa’s energy sector, East African Breweries PLC (EABL) has emerged as a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and impact. Their groundbreaking biomass steam plants, launched in 2022, have not only set new industry standards but also reaffirmed their commitment to environmental conservation, economic empowerment, and the transition to renewable energy. This trailblazing initiative is the reason EABL stands as a deserving winner of the Africa Best Innovation Award.
Revolutionizing Industrial Energy with Biomass
For decades, Africa’s manufacturing sector has relied on fossil fuels, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. EABL, recognizing the need for change, made an unprecedented investment of £34.26 million (KSh 5.057 billion) into biomass energy, replacing heavy fuel oil at its plants in Kenya and Uganda. By harnessing sustainable agricultural waste including bamboo, macadamia husks, and bagasse EABL has achieved a remarkable 95% reduction in carbon emissions, cutting 34,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually in Kenya and 90% of emissions in Uganda. This initiative not only reduces EABL’s environmental footprint but also sets a benchmark for industrial decarbonization in Africa. The Tusker plant in Nairobi alone processes 18 tonnes of biofuel per hour, while Kisumu and Kampala plants boast equally impressive capacities. This level of efficiency demonstrates how industries can transition to cleaner energy without compromising production capacity.
Jobs from the Soil: Lifting Lives with Every Flame;
Beyond its environmental impact, the EABL biomass project is a game-changer for Africa’s local economies. By sourcing biomass from local farmers within a 150km radius of each plant, the initiative has created over 900 direct and indirect jobs, empowering small-scale farmers, youth, and women. This fosters an inclusive green economy, where sustainable energy and community development go hand in hand.
A Greener Brew: Leading with Love for Tomorrow
EABL’s commitment to renewable energy does not stop at biomass. The company has also integrated solar installations across all its breweries, meeting 10% of its total electricity demand. Additionally, it has transitioned to LPG-powered forklifts, replacing diesel-powered alternatives to further curb emissions.
By blending innovation, environmental stewardship, and socio-economic transformation, EABL has redefined what it means to be a leader in Africa’s renewable energy space. Their biomass project is not just a solution it is a movement, inspiring industries across the continent to embrace cleaner, more sustainable alternatives. For these reasons, EABL is a worthy recipient of the Africa Best Innovation Award a true testament to the power of corporate responsibility in shaping a greener, more sustainable Africa.
Nancy: The Briquette Queen Flipping Communities Green
Her Passion’s Lighting Up Lives, one Sustainable spark at a time
Nancy Marangu’s is a leader and a wildfire of love and hustle, torching barriers and turning communities into renewable energy champs. As the heartbeat of Chemichemi Foundation, she’s snagged the Community Leadership Award, and it’s no surprise. With a vision as bright as her spirit, she’s weaving sustainability into the fabric of Kenya’s overlooked corners, proving passion, not privilege, powers change.
Disability to Dynamite: Skills That Shine
Nancy’s got a gift: seeing potential where others see limits. She’s trained groups like Ruiga Mwendi and Joy Winners groups of people with disabilities turning them into briquette-making bosses. No fancy degrees, just hands-on grit in local lingo, teaching them to churn waste into eco-gold. Her magic? It’s not charity rather an opportunity, and she’s damn proud watching these communities glow with purpose.
Sign Me Up: Inclusion That Roars
Here’s where she slays: Nancy cracked the code for the hearingimpaired, translating renewable energy jargon into sign language with groups like Majengo Muslim crew’s all learning together. The judges swooned over her heart as nobody’s left out, and that’s her superpower. She’s not whispering inclusion; she’s shouting it!
Eco-Empowerment: Communities Her briquette squads keep rolling, cutting pollution and stacking cash. Self-help groups like Njuguni Conservation level up through peer swaps, and Meru’s county government’s now backing her play as policy’s got her fingerprints. She’s slashed air pollution, sparked jobs, and tied it all to Kenya’s big green goals. Communities aren’t surviving no more, they’re thriving, and she’s the architect behind it.
Nancy Marangu’s is a sensation with passion dripping having communities rising. The judges awarded her legacy of love and local power. She’s showing the world that sustainability’s sweetest when everyone’s in on the grind even those undermined.
Disability to Dynamite: Skills that Shine
Nancy Marangu holding her trophy; Community Leadership Award
Sistema.bio
The Green Genie Turning Dung into Africa’s Gold
Hey! Sistema.bio, You’ve Just Won and here’s why You’re Africa’s Sustainability Rockstar
In the dynamic and often challenging energy landscape of Africa, Sistema.bio doesn’t just make a mark, it leads the way. The company has recently been celebrated with the prestigious Africa Sustainability Award, a recognition of their groundbreaking bio digester technology that turns waste into a precious resource for smallholder farmers. This accolade is a powerful affirmation of their unwavering commitment to fostering a cleaner and more equitable continent.
Waste Wizardry: Harnessing the Power of Biogas
Here’s the magic: cow dung and kitchen scraps are ingeniously converted into biogas, a clean and renewable energy source illuminating kitchens across 11 African nations. Since its launch in Kenya in 2017, Sistema.bio’s technology has eliminated the detrimental impacts of smoky firewood, dramatically reducing
indoor pollution and slashing energy costs by an impressive 60%. By effectively trapping methane, a potent greenhouse gas, before it can escape into the atmosphere, they’ve crafted a genius solution that’s revolutionizing energy production.
Farmers’ Fortune: Cultivating Richer, Greener Futures
With over 14,000 bio digesters now dotting the landscapes from Uganda to Morocco, Sistema.bio’s impact reaches an astonishing 80,000 lives. The bonus? The same system produces biofertilizers that cut fertilizer costs by 40%. As fields flourish, yields soar, and smallholder farmers many of whom are women gain newfound confidence. Sistema. bio is not merely powering homes; they are sowing the seeds of prosperity within communities. This initiative transcends energy; it’s about transforming lives.
Carbon Crusaders: Dismantling Emissions with Purpose
The statistics tell a compelling story: 230,000 tons of CO₂ prevented from entering the atmosphere, and a staggering 8.3 million tonnes of waste effectively managed every year. That’s Sistema.bio showcasing its environmental prowess, demonstrating that sustainability is not just a slogan; it’s a powerful movement. From Nairobi to Nigeria, they’re rewriting Africa’s carbon narrative, one biodigester at a time, serving as a beacon of hope for a sustainable future.
Teamwork Triumph: Uniting Forces for Real Change
No lone heroes here, Sistema. bio thrives on collaboration. By partnering with organizations like Ecogen in Malawi, Engie in Zambia, and Farmerline in Ghana, they’ve created a ripple effect of impact. Major players such as the Shell Foundation and Mastercard lend their support, making clean energy
accessible for farmers who might otherwise be left behind. This collaboration is not just strategic; it’s the cornerstone of a sustainable and inclusive future.
Sistema.bio’s story goes beyond technology; it’s infused with purpose and passion. They’re actively contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals, addressing Affordable Energy (SDG 7), Climate Action (SDG 13), Poverty Reduction (SDG 1), and Women’s Empowerment (SDG 5). Their achievement resonates with undeniable truth: they are not only sustainable; they are unstoppable. Thanks to Sistema.bio, Africa’s future shines ever brighter. This award isn’t merely a trophy; it’s a resounding “well done” to a team reshaping a continent with resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to progress.
Sistema.bio team receiving the Africa’s Sustainability Award from Logan Christi Hambrick (Left) (Independent NonExecutive Director) KPLC during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
Maya Kigen: Gen Z’s Energy Empress Droppin’ Power Bombs
Under 30 and Unstoppable; She’s Why the Kids Are Taking Over
Maya Kigen marched up for the Power Gaga Award, and at just under 30, she is winning and rewriting the energy game with Gen Z enthusiasm. This isn’t some dusty trophy moment, it’s a full-on flex for every young hustler out there, proving you don’t need gray hair to spark a revolution. The judges? They’re vibin’; Maya’s passion, grit, and community glow lit up their hearts like a solar flare.
Rule-Smasher Alert: Kigen’s Rewriting Energy’s Playbook
Maya’s been obsessed with science and sustainability since she was a kid, dodging STEM’s old-school shade mentor droughts, side-eyes, and gatekeepers. As a renewable energy engineer, she’s flipped the script, leading projects that zap clean power into forgotten corners. She’s not waiting for a seat; she’s building the table, and the judges saw a trailblazer who’s all gas, no brakes.
Maya as a STEM trainer in Kilifi County helping learners to showcase final projects to the judges.
Maya receiving the Power Gaga Award during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
Lights On, Lives Lit: Her Projects Slay for Real Maya’s not here for theory, she’s out there swapping kerosene’s cough for clean energy’s shine. Hundreds of homes now glow thanks to her scalable genius, from solar setups to grassroots grids. It’s not just watts; it’s lives flipped, kids studying, moms breathing easy. The judges popped off for her impact: innovative, community-first, and straight-up fire. Gen Z’s taking the wheel, and Maya’s driving.
Mentor Mood: Queen Maya’s Hyping Up STEM Sisters
This queen’s got a squad. Mentoring over 100 girls, she’s dishing STEM realness, shattering ceilings, and screaming, “You got this!” Her advocacy’s loud; energy’s future’s female, and she’s proof. From panels to
projects, she’s pulling young women up, showing them the game’s theirs to own. The judges were stunned a leader who doesn’t just win, she multiplies wins.
Maya Kigen’s story’s pure joy, Gen Z energy in full throttle. She’s not waiting for the old guard; she’s seizing power, inspiring a wave of kids to grab the reins. The Power Gaga Award’s hers because she’s a movement, passionate, fierce, and unstoppable. The future’s hers, and it’s lit.
Brian Onyango: The Green King Slaying Energy Woes
Young, Bold, and Brilliant; Brian’s Got Africa’s Clean Energy Glow
Brian Onyango’s not waiting for the world to go green, he’s dragging it there, one slick move at a time. Crowned with the Africa Renewable Young & Inspiring Professional Award, this dynamo’s the Chairman of United Briquettes Association of Kenya (UBPA) and the brain behind Usafi Green Energy. Eight years deep in biomass, solar, and clean cookstoves, he’s flexed his chops with heavyweights like UNHCR, SNV, and GIZ. Already snagging Africa SME of the Year 2022, Brian’s now got this award in his pocket a proof he’s the real deal.
Tech Titan at 29: Solar Kits That Spark Joy
In Turkana, where 80% stumble in the dark, Brian’s Usafi Green Energy has lit up 9,000 homes and 23 schools since 2019. His solar-powered computer kits; complete with four bonus bulbs are kicking diesel to the curb, powering businesses and classrooms with pure sunshine swagger. This kid’s a tech wizard with heart.
Briquette Boss: Turning Weeds into Wins
Brian’s got a green hustle: he’s spun the pesky Prosopis Juliflora (Mathenge) into biomass briquettes, saving 10,000 metric tons of CO₂. Affordable, clean cooking fuel? Check. He’s not just saving the planet, he’s making it look cool, one briquette at a time.
Policy Punk: Shaping a Greener Tomorrow
This young gun’s not just building, he’s bossing policy too. As a KISIDEP IFC rep, he’s steered 20+ investors, unlocked millions, and planted Turkana’s first private clean energy factory, sparking 17 jobs.
Brian receiving the Africa’s Young & Inspiring Professional Award from Anne Thairu during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
The Solar ‘Mama’ who’s Raising a Renewable Family
Her Heart’s Lighting Up Lives Left in the Dark
Wambui Njoroge is a mentor, she’s a lifeline, a solar-charged force of love who’s turned forgotten corners into thriving futures. As Solar Mtaani’s founder, she’s snagged the Mentorship Award, and the judges? They were floored by a woman who picks up kids nobody else would, wraps them in skills, and sets them soaring. Her passion’s a wildfire, and it’s pure joy to watch.
Sunlit Savior: Scooping Kids Up with Solar Skills
Through her Installers Academy, Wambui’s grabbed 211 underserved youth—girls from slums, rehab runaways and handed them the sun. Scholarships, hands-on training, and certifications? Check. Jobs, internships, and self-made gigs? Double check. Over 87 female techs now rule the solar scene, thanks to her. She’s not only teaching wires, she’s dishing out therapy, industry hookups, and hope, proving to the judges that mentorship’s deepest when it lifts the lost.
Glow-Getter: Turning Widows into Powerhouse Bosses
Wambui’s love doesn’t stop at youth, it’s a glow-up for women too. Her ‘Solar Soko’ Program’s got widows, refugees, and 45 self-help group queens running solar kiosks, mills, and sewing hustles across 13 teams. Microloans, biz smarts, and clean energy tech; she’s flipped their worlds from survival to thriving. The judges saw her tears in every watt, building not just income but dignity one radiant entrepreneur at a time.
Legacy Lit: Mentoring
a movement that shines forever, Wambui has built a scalable supernova, with government, solar firms, and NGOs in her corner, Solar Mtaani’s ready to blaze across Africa. Demand is spiking , and she’s got the playbook: skills, inclusion, sustainability. The judges didn’t just see projects, they saw a legacy, a woman whose passion for the overlooked is rewriting energy’s future, girl by girl, community by community.
Wambui Njoroge’s win is a tearjerker triumph. Her heart’s big, her impact’s bigger, lifting kids who can’t pay, empowering women who’ve been down, and showing the world mentorship’s magic when it’s pure love. The judges crowned a queen who proves: passion changes everything.
The judges saw her tears in every watt
Wambui Njoroge receiving the Mentorship Award during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
Dinesh receiving the CEO of the Year Award during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
Dinesh: The Energy Whisperer Lighting Africa’s Green Path
A CEO’s Genius Turns Waste into Wisdom, Boiler by Boiler
In Africa’s industrial hum, where energy once bled through cracks of inefficiency, Dinesh Atharva
Tembhekar heard a call to action. As CEO of Lean Energy Solutions, he didn’t just lead, he transformed, earning the Africa Renewable Energy CEO Award with a stroke of brilliance: the Lean Boiler Monitoring System (LBMS). Teaming up with Ecophi Engineering GBH, he tackled the messy chaos of biomass boilers that involves fuel waste, steam leaks, neglected upkeep, turning costly headaches into a symphony of control.
Mastermind Unleashed: Crafting a Boiler Breakthrough
Picture Dinesh, a thinker with fire in his veins, designing LBMS to whisper secrets from boilers. Steam pressure, temperature, fuel flow all dancing onto a cloud-based dashboard in real time. Across 17 sites in Kenya and Tanzania, from KTDA factories to Sarova Hotels, his system watches, learns, and guides, proving one man’s vision can tame a beast.
Efficiency’s Champion: Slashing Costs, Saving Earth
This isn’t just tech, it’s a lifeline. Companies like PZ Cussons and OLA Energy slashed fuel waste by 50%, their steam humming stronger, their reliance on firewood fading. Dinesh’s predictive analytics spot leaks
and theft, cutting carbon trails while fattening wallets. His dashboard doesn’t just track, it empowers, handing industries the reins to a cleaner, leaner future.
Culture Shaper: Igniting a Sustainability Fire
Dinesh doesn’t stop at machines; he shifts souls. Monthly reports in hand, factory floors buzz with proactive care; maintenance isn’t a chore, it’s a creed. He’s sparked a movement where sustainability isn’t a buzzword but a badge of honor, aligning Africa’s industries with the world’s green heartbeat.
Vision on the Move: Scaling Hope Across a Continent
From Unilever to Aga Khan Hospital, LBMS flexes its might across sectors; food, health, and hospitality proving its wings are wide. Dinesh charms conference halls and boardrooms, his workshops planting seeds of change. This isn’t a tool; it’s a torch, ready to blaze through Africa, lighting up a renewable dawn.
Dinesh Atharva Tembhekar stands tall, a CEO whose ingenuity doesn’t just win awards but rewrites futures. Lean Energy Solutions, under his steady hand, isn’t just leading, it’s lifting a continent toward sustainability, one inspired step at a time.
Patrick Gikunju: The Heartbeat of Safety in Energy’s Storm
Turning Rules into Resilience, One Life at
a Time
In energy’s high-stakes world, safety isn’t just rules, it’s a lifeline pulsing with emotion. Patrick Gikunju, crowned Health and Safety Champion 2024, has woven this truth into Kenya’s energy sector. His leadership at KenGen transformed safety from a checkbox to a culture, earning him a well-deserved award.
From Desk to Danger Zone: Building a Safety Shield
Gikunju didn’t just meet standards, he rewrote them.
Launching KenGen’s Safety Management System in 2015 and securing ISO 45001:2018, he built frameworks like Disaster Risk Management (DRM/BCP) to shield lives against chaos. His COVID-19 Return-toWork protocols, rolled out in a mere month, turned panic into protection, proving safety thrives in crisis.
His COVID-19 Return-to-Work protocols
Innovation with Soul: Tools That Protect and Inspire
Think “Safety in the Storm”; Gikunju’s guide for thriving in uncertainty. He crafted fire policies, risk assessments, and incident reporting systems, embedding safety into 56 workplaces. Partnering with St. John Ambulance and KWS, he stretched safety’s embrace to communities and tour guides, making it a shared heartbeat, not just a corporate chore.
Mentor of Might: Growing Safety’s Next Guardians
Gikunju’s legacy glows in the people he’s shaped. As a trainer and mentor, he’s raised a new wave of safety pros, ready for tomorrow’s risks. His global cred— KEBS, ISO committees, American Society for Quality, puts him on the world stage. Plus, he’s tied safety to sustainability, syncing ISO standards for efficiency and a greener planet.
Patrick’s story shines: a man who turned safety into an emotional fortress. From cost-saving waste segregation to life-saving protocols, he’s the guardian Kenya’s energy sector needed. His award isn’t just a trophy, it’s a salute to a pioneer who proves safety is love in action.
Jenny: The Non-Tech Titan Ruling Energy’s New Dawn
Judges Bowed to Her High-Impact Hustle at Ariya
Jenny Fletcher, is an entrepreneur and the undisputed queen of clean energy, steering Ariya Finergy to glory with a crown forged from grit, vision, and non-technical genius. As CEO, she snagged a slew of nods, like Solar Quarter’s Woman Leader of the Year 2022, and the judges? They were floored by her high-impact hustle, proof that you don’t need a toolkit to lead the charge in the energy game. Her story’s a throne-room tale of leadership that’s less about circuits and more about soul.
Vision Vibes: Leading Without a Wrench, Winning Big
Jenny’s no engineer, but she’s the mastermind wiring East Africa’s green future. Her non-technical leadership, strategy, partnerships, and pure vibe turned Ariya into a B2B clean energy beast, doubling revenue yearly and racking up 15MW across 50+ projects. She’s the glue, not the gears, syncing teams, clients, and big ideas. The judges saw a boss who doesn’t code but commands, nabbing “EPC of the Year” in 2022 and proving soft skills slay harder than solder.
“Woman in Solar” title says it all.
Power Plays: Jenny’s High-Stakes Moves Shake the Sector
This queen’s got game. Jenny’s high-impact moves like snagging financing for solar PV, battery storage, and power stabilization having zapped 4,210 tons of CO₂
and lit up industries from textiles to universities. She’s danced with giants, securing deals that make Ariya a name from Nairobi to Dares-Salaam. The judges didn’t just see projects; they saw a chess master flipping the board, blending economic wins with eco-warrior flex—her 2021 “Woman in Solar” title says it all.
Queen’s Court: Building a Green Empire with Heart
Jenny’s not here for a solo reign, she’s raising a kingdom. Her leadership’s a rally cry, inspiring teams and touching lives daily. From powering malls to mentoring the
next wave, she’s built Ariya into a community heartbeat, not just a company. The judges crowned her for that ripple: sustainable solutions that don’t just shine but uplift, with a smile that says, “We’ve got this.” Her 2014 “Top 60 Influential Figures in African Power” nod? That’s her scepter.
Jenny Fletcher’s the queen who proves non-technical leadership, vision, hustle and the heart can electrify the energy sector. Ariya is her throne, and the judges? They’re her loyal subjects, hailing a ruler who’s all impact, no wires.
Jenny fletcher receiving the Professional Non-technical award from CEO Davis & Shirtliff Mr. George Mbugua
The Human Resource Leader of the Year
Cecilia Kalungu-Uvyu: The HR Visionary Igniting Kenya Power’s Bright Future
In today’s fast-evolving corporate world, HR leadership is about transformation and Cecilia KalunguUvyu, General Manager of Human Resources & Administration at Kenya Power, is redefining it. With 18 years of experience, she’s earned the HR Leader of the Year Award 2024 for her visionary approach, blending innovation with employee empowerment to drive Kenya Power forward.
From Strategy to Soul: Crafting a People-First Revolution
Cecilia’s People Strategy 2023–2028 has transformed Kenya Power’s culture, lifting employee engagement from 62% to 67%. Her focus on motivation and accountability has built a workforce that thrives, aligning HR with business goals to power organizational success.
Tech Meets Talent: Pioneering Smarter, Faster HR Wins
An initiator in HR innovation, Cecilia introduced e-recruitment, competency-based interviews, and psychometric testing, slashing hiring times while securing top talent. She also crafted a five-year workforce plan, syncing HR with Kenya Power’s growth and boosting productivity from 55% to 67% through targeted training.
Efficiency with Heart: Slashing Costs, Boosting Spirits
Cecilia slashed staff costs by 21%, from Kshs. 19 billion to Kshs. 15 billion in 2021, via strategic restructuring; shifting senior contracts to performance-based terms. Beyond savings, she launched recognition programs and wellness initiatives, proving efficiency and empathy can coexist.
From
Strategy to Soul: Crafting a People-First Revolution
Leading with Legacy: Inspiring a New Era of HR Excellence
Beyond Kenya Power, Cecilia shapes employee welfare as a Kenya Power Pension Fund trustee and excels in CBA negotiations. Her past at National Oil Corporation saw HR costs drop 30%, cementing her knack for results. With an MBA from USIU-Africa, a Cambridge sustainability certificate, and CIPD (UK) credentials, she’s a certified force inspiring HR across Africa.
Cecilia Kalungu-Uvyu’s 2024 award celebrates an HR titan who turns strategy into inspiration. She’s not just managing talent, she’s igniting a movement, proving that people-centered leadership can light up an industry and a continent. Her legacy is a workplace where innovation, efficiency, and humanity shine.
Cecilia receiving the Human Resource of the Year Award during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
Rising Voices, Lasting Impact: Women WIL’s Award-Winning Push for Women in Energy
Beyond the Boardroom: WIL’s Ripple Effect on Communities and STEM
Women in Leadership Team (WIL) receiving the Women Group of the Year Award from Ruth Wambui of CCAK (left) during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
In an energy sector long dominated by men, Davis & Shirtliff’s Women in Leadership (WIL) program stands out as a beacon of change, recently honored with the Women Group Award. This is a call to action for others to get inspired and follow suit.
Inspired to Lead: Davis & Shirtliff’s WIL Redefines Women’s Roles in Energy
WIL is a structured powerhouse, operating across 13 countries with a steering committee and regional leaders driving its mission: to elevate women into leadership roles. Through mentorship, networking, and targeted training, it’s transforming the workplace from within. The numbers speak volumes—35% of middle management roles are now held by women, proving that gender diversity fuels innovation and economic strength.
Breaking Barriers, Building Futures: How WIL Drives Economic and Gender Progress
The ripple effect of WIL extends far beyond the boardroom. Through initiatives like the Big Me program, WIL mentors university students and engages communities, inspiring young women to pursue STEM and energy careers. Partnerships with institutions like Strathmore and Kenyatta University amplify this impact, breaking stereotypes and building a pipeline of future female leaders. Judges lauded this outreach, noting how WIL’s efforts are reshaping perceptions and creating opportunities where few existed before.
Voices That Shape Tomorrow: WIL’s Award-Winning Impact on Leadership and STEM
Sustainability is at WIL’s core. Flexible work policies, lactation facilities, and a dynamic succession plan ensure long-term inclusivity. By rotating leadership and nurturing talent, WIL guarantees its legacy will endure, inspiring companies to invest in women as economic drivers. The program’s holistic approach that’s balancing internal growth with external influence and sets a gold standard for the industry.
Rising Voices, Lasting Impact: Women IL’s AwardWinning Push for Women in Energy
Davis & Shirtliff’s (WIL) isn’t just a program; it’s a movement that proves women’s leadership is essential for progress. Its award-winning model showcases why gender equity matters: it strengthens companies, uplifts communities, and powers economies. The judges picked WIL for its tangible impact and visionary approach, now it’s time for others to get inspired and lead the way.
“Our award-winning model showcases why gender equity matters: it strengthens companies, uplifts communities, and powers economies.” - Women in Leadership (WIL) Chair, Margaret KuchioGeneral Manager, Davis & Shirliff
KenGen team receiving the Marketing Firm of the Year Award from Saumu Ismail (left) during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024, Movenpick Nairobi
KenGen’s “Jenga” Juggernaut: Marketing Muscle Powers a Green Revolution
Communication Cranks Up the Voltage for Africa’s Renewable Future
Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) didn’t just win the Africa Renewable Marketing Campaign of the Year Award—they rewired the energy game with “Jenga KenGen, Inua Mapato.” Launched in 2024, this electrifying 20242026 campaign isn’t just a catchy slogan (“Build KenGen, Boost Revenue”); it’s a masterstroke of communication and marketing, proving that words and ideas can fuel sustainability as fiercely as geothermal steam. KenGen’s triumph showcases how internal campaigns can jolt a company—and a continent—toward a cleaner, greener tomorrow.
Sparks Fly: A Campaign That Lit Up Sustainability
Look at the 10% surge in renewable energy generation, 250,000 tons of CO₂ erased from the sky. That’s no fluke—it’s “Jenga KenGen” in action. By weaving gamification and digital buzz into the mix, KenGen turned sustainability into a rallying cry. Workshops buzzed with green ideas, dashboards tracked real-time wins, and the result? A leaner, meaner energy giant, cutting emissions and cementing Kenya’s shift to renewables. The judges saw a campaign that didn’t just talk the talk—it powered the walk.
Inside Out: Employees Amp Up the Green Game
Here’s the kicker: 85% of KenGen’s crew jumped in, not as drones, but as dynamos. This wasn’t topdown preaching; it was a grassroots jolt. Staff pitched innovations, tweaked operations, and owned the mission—driving efficiency skyward. Communication wasn’t a memo; it was a megaphone, amplifying every voice. That internal spark? It flipped a switch, boosting output and slashing waste, proving people power accelerates progress when the message hits home.
Ripple Effect: Trust and Triumph Beyond the Grid
The juice didn’t stop at KenGen’s gates. Investor confidence spiked 15%, cash flowed stronger, and stakeholders cheered a brand they could bank on. “Jenga KenGen” didn’t just stack profits—it built bridges, showing Africa how to marry green goals with gold. It’s a playbook for energy firms everywhere: talk smart, act bold, win big. At 400 words, this is KenGen’s story—a tale of marketing might and communication clout, lighting up sustainability from the inside out.
Powering Equity, Powering Profit: BEST Energy’s Gender Game-Changer
Rewriting the Rules: How Gender Inclusivity Fuels BEST Energy’s Success
In Africa’s pulsing energy landscape, BEST Energy stands tall, crowned Energy Company of the Year. This is a win of hope, a testament to what happens when gender equity, profit, and purpose collide. The judges saw a leader not just in power, but in people.
Powering Equity, Powering Profit: BEST Energy’s Gender Game-Changer
Tears of pride welled up as women stepped into roles once out of reach. BEST Energy rewrote the rules in a male-heavy industry with a gender policy that’s more than words but full of it’s action. Mentorship lifted spirits, diverse hiring opened doors, and women now shine in technical and leadership posts. This diversity isn’t just fair,it’s fuel. It’s sparked innovation, sharpened decisions, and swelled profits. The judges marveled: here’s a company proving that inclusivity isn’t a cost, it’s a goldmine, driving revenue and rewriting success.
Beyond the Grid: Lifting Communities with Heart and Hustle
Picture a woman mastering green energy skills, her hands shaping a sustainable future. BEST Energy’s Kibondeni College TVET Sustainable Hospitality Greening Program, tied to Mövenpick Hotel, does just that. It’s a training with transformation, arming women with tools to lead
The judges chose BEST Energy because it’s a beacon: every watt hums with equity, every project lifts a community, every woman’s voice echoes in its success.
in hospitality and beyond. Communities feel the lift: jobs bloom, businesses thrive, and East Africa’s energy glows greener. The judges felt it too; a ripple of empowerment that turns corporate wins into human victories, showing leadership that touches lives.
A Legacy of Light: Why BEST Energy Leads the Way
This is no fleeting spark. BEST Energy fuses profit with purpose, sustainability with soul. Its diverse teams don’t just power grids, they power progress, proving that inclusivity builds stronger companies and brighter futures. The judges chose BEST Energy because it’s a beacon: every watt hums with equity, every project lifts a community, every woman’s voice echoes in its success. This is energy with a heartbeat—a call to the industry to rise, not just in power, but in humanity.
BEST Energy’s triumph is not about numbers rather it is about the stories behind them. It’s the mother leading a team, the profit that funds dreams, the community that thrives. This is why they lead, and why we’re moved to follow.
Best Energy CEO Faraaz (right) receiving the Company of the Year Award from Julius Motaraki (left) General Manager Renewable Rentco Renewable Energy Company during the Oscars of Energy Conference held on 9th Dec 2024,Movenpick Nairobi
Brewing a Greener Future: EABL’s Biomass Revolution
How East African Breweries is Redefining Innovation and Uplifting Communities
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword at East African Breweries PLC (EABL) it’s a bold mission. With a Kshs. 5 billion investment in biomass plants across Nairobi, Kisumu, and Uganda, EABL, crowned winners of the Africa Sustainability Awards, is slashing carbon emissions and igniting economic hope, especially for women. This is the heartbeat of their ‘Spirit of Progress’ strategy, a comprehensive plan that focuses on reducing carbon emissions, promoting gender equality, and fostering economic growth. It’s driving a grain-to-glass revolution that’s as green as it is groundbreaking.
From Waste to Power: A Cleaner Tomorrow Goodbye, heavy fuel oils hello, renewable energy. EABL’s biomass plants transform macadamia shells, coffee husks, and sugarcane bagasse into a circular energy powerhouse. The result? A jaw-dropping 95%
carbon emissions cut by 2030, slashing Scope 1 and 2 emissions from 28.29 kt CO2e in 2023 to 21.4 kt CO2e in 2024. This isn’t just innovation it’s a lifeline for the planet, reducing air and water pollution, and preserving natural resources.
Women at the Wheel: Driving Economic Change
Beyond eco-wins, EABL’s biomass initiative is a gamechanger for women. From sourcing agricultural waste to steering logistics, women-led companies are at the core of this supply chain. Their partnerships with EABL mean steady incomes, financial independence, and a ripple effect of empowerment—proving sustainability can brew prosperity, too. This commitment to gender equality is something we can all be proud of.
Impact That Echoes: Jobs, Skills, Lives
This isn’t just about beer,it’s about people. Hundreds of jobs have sprung up, with over 20 companies fueling the Nairobi and Kisumu plants. Women and youth gain skills in sustainable sourcing and entrepreneurship, while rising incomes unlock education and healthcare. EABL isn’t just reducing emissions; it’s raising livelihoods. EABL’s biomass plants are more than an energy solution—they’re a blueprint for Africa’s future.
By blending renewable power with social impact, they’re crafting a low-carbon, inclusive legacy. This is sustainability with soul: a model that doesn’t just brew beverages but brews change, one community at a time. It’s a hopeful vision of what the future could look like.
TikTok’s STEM: A GameChanger for Young Learners
How a Social Media Giant is Transforming Science, Tech, and Learning for the Next Generation
From Selfies and dance challenges to STEM: TikTok’s Unexpected Evolution
In the whirlwind of the digital era, social media isn’t just for selfies and viral dances as it’s reshaping how young people learn. TikTok, once an entertainment giant, has launched a game-changing STEM header, bringing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics to life. This bold move transforms STEM from daunting to dynamic, making it accessible and irresistible to the next generation.
Turning STEM Into Scroll-Worthy Fun
STEM subjects can feel like a maze of complexity, but TikTok’s bite-sized, visually stunning videos turn that maze into a playground. Creators wield storytelling, animations, and quirky challenges to unpack tricky concepts, blending education with the app’s signature flair. Suddenly, science isn’t abstract rather it’s relatable, exciting, and tied to everyday life, sparking aha-moments mid-scroll.
Real Role Models, Real Impact
The platform doesn’t stop at engagement; it inspires. For kids who’ve never met a scientist or coder, TikTok showcases real STEM stars the engineers tinkering, innovators brainstorming and making these careers feel within reach. With diverse voices from women to
By Ivy Naanyu
underrepresented communities, it shatters stereotypes, igniting dreams of STEM futures across the globe.
DIY Discovery: Learning By Doing
Hands-on learning thrives here too. TikTok’s DIY vibe that is the think home experiments, coding hacks, or mini-engineering feats which turns viewers into doers. These quick, impactful projects sharpen critical thinking and creativity, prepping teens for real-world problem-solving. Passive scrolling? Now it’s active discovery.
Verified, Not Viral
Credibility matters in a sea of online noise, and TikTok delivers. Partnering with educators, scientists, and institutions, the STEM header serves up verified content, battling misinformation while boosting digital smarts.
Future-Proofing Learning
This is more than a feature; it’s a movement. By making STEM inclusive, practical, and downright fun, TikTok is molding
tomorrow’s innovators and leaders. As tech races forward, this fusion of social media and education ensures learning stays fresh, bold, and future-proof. Scroll on! students the world’s waiting.
Revolutionizing Energy Efficiency in Africa: BEST Energy’s Award-Winning Mission
BEST Energy, crowned Energy Company of the Year in the Africa Queen of Energy awards, is transforming Africa’s energy landscape. As businesses grapple with rising costs, grid instability, and ESG pressures, BEST Energy’s innovative solutions blending cutting-edge tech, automation, and real-time monitoring are slashing waste, boosting profits, and driving sustainability. This award celebrates their prowess and inspires their bold diversification, showcasing Africa’s potential to the world.
Tackling the Energy Crisis with Smart Solutions
Across Africa, up to 30% of energy is wasted due to outdated systems and poor visibility. BEST Energy’s Energy Management as a Service (EMaaS) tackles this head-on. With IoT-based Eniscope technology, businesses gain instant insights, while AI optimization and tailored strategies cut costs by 10-30%. From HVAC to solar, they’re proving efficiency is key to resilience and sustainability.
Empowering Businesses, Empowering Communities
BEST Energy’s impact spans hospitality, manufacturing, and beyond, delivering measurable savings and greener operations. Their solutions optimize solar performance, reduce diesel reliance, and prevent equipment failures saving money and shrinking carbon footprints. This award recognizes not just profit, but purpose, as they empower diverse teams and communities to thrive in a cleaner energy future.
A Diverse Leader Lighting the Global Stage
BEST Energy’s diversity-driven success sets a powerful example. Their inclusive approach fuels innovation, earning them this prestigious accolade. As they scale across Africa, they’re not just reducing waste they’re future-proofing businesses and inspiring a global audience. Congratulations to BEST Energy for leading with vision; your diversified brilliance is a beacon for the world, inspiring us all.
Discover how BEST Energy can transform your operations at www.bestenergy.co.ke. With a proven track record, they’re revolutionizing energy efficiency profitably, sustainably, and inclusively.
to oUR sUppoRteRs & paRticipants
The Africa Queen of Energy Awards and the Africa Renewable Energy Awards have flourished over the past decade, thanks to our powerful partnerships with visionary companies.Together, we have redefined storytelling, unearthed groundbreaking innovations, and established transformative models of energy leadership. We have actively created inclusive spaces, shared the inspiring human stories behind our initiatives, and celebrated the remarkable skills that drive impactful change.
These awards have not only humanized the energy sector but also illuminated the resilience and creativity that fuel Africa’s sustainable future. Our collaboration has elevated excellence and ignited a movement, amplifying voices, championing inclusivity, and shining a spotlight on progress. Thank you for ten incredible years of partnership that have transformed lives and paved the way toward a brighter, renewable tomorrow. Your expertise and contributions have been pivotal to our shared success
