As Africa accelerates toward universal electrification, a new generation of female executives is leading the charge across the power landscape. These women are not only modernizing infrastructure and advancing renewable energy integration but also redefining how leadership looks in one of Africa’s most critical sectors. Their work reflects the continent’s bold vision for inclusive, sustainable power development.
1. Rebecca Miano — Managing Director & CEO, KenGen (Kenya, East Africa)
Rebecca Miano leads Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), East Africa’s largest power producer. Under her leadership, KenGen has deepened its investment in geothermal and renewable energy, helping Kenya emerge as a continental leader in clean power generation. Miano’s advocacy for women in energy continues to inspire a new generation of African engineers and executives.
2. Olaedo Osoka — CEO, Daystar Power Group (Ghana, West Africa)
Olaedo Osoka oversees Daystar Power Group’s operations across West Africa, a renewable energy company providing solar solutions to businesses and industries. Her leadership has driven Daystar’s expansion into multiple African markets, promoting clean, affordable alternatives to fossil fuel dependence. Recognized among Forbes’ most promising young African leaders, Osoka is at the forefront of Africa’s commercial solar revolution.
3. Florence Nsubuga — Chief Operations Officer & Executive Director, Umeme Limited (Uganda, Central Africa)
Florence Nsubuga is a seasoned power executive in Uganda, serving as Chief Operations Officer and Executive Director at Umeme Limited, the country’s largest electricity distributor. With over two decades of experience, she has strengthened Umeme’s operational efficiency and customer service, shaping Uganda’s evolving electricity landscape through innovation and accountability.
4. Folake Soetan — CEO, Ikeja Electric (Nigeria, West Africa)
Folake Soetan leads Ikeja Electric, Nigeria’s largest electricity distribution company, and is the first woman to hold the position of CEO. Her tenure has been marked by technology-driven reforms, improved billing transparency, and the Bilateral Power Initiative, which enhances direct power supply to communities. Soetan’s leadership reflects a balance of empathy and enterprise, paving the way for women in Nigeria’s energy sector.
5. Nelisiwe Magubane — Founder & Managing Director, Matleng Energy Solutions (South Africa, Southern Africa)
Nelisiwe Magubane, former Director-General of South Africa’s Department of Energy, is the founder of Matleng Energy Solutions, a consultancy advancing renewable integration and energy policy reform. Her decades-long influence in both government and the private sector continues to shape regulatory frameworks and sustainable infrastructure in Southern Africa.
Methodology
This list spotlights five women in executive leadership across Africa’s power and energy sectors. Selection focused on current verified leadership roles, measurable impact on energy access or infrastructure reform, and regional representation across East, West, Central, and Southern Africa. Information was verified through company websites, press releases, and credible business media sources, including Forbes Africa, Business Insider Africa, and The Guardian Nigeria.
