The Mozambican government reaffirmed this Wednesday (11) its commitment to guarantee universal access to energy by 2030, prioritizing the active inclusion of women throughout the entire value chain of the energy sector.
This position was defended by António Manda, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy (MIREME), during the Summit and Open Class of Women in Clean Energy and Climate Action organized by the Graça Machel Trust in Maputo.
“We need to transform our energy potential into tangible benefits for all Mozambicans — and that includes putting women at the center of the solution,” said Manda, highlighting that over 40% of the population still lives without access to safe and clean forms of energy. The official emphasized the progress already made through the “Energy for All” program, which combines the extension of the national electricity grid, installation of mini-grids, and promotion of standalone solar systems. “Currently, the access rate is around 60%, but the challenge is huge, requiring innovation, modern regulation, and more active participation of women,” he stated.
Among ongoing measures, António Manda announced that the government will approve two key regulations this year: one on concessions and another on the universal access fee. “It is with this legal framework that we will attract more investment and support energy projects led by women,” he assured.
Beyond infrastructure expansion, the MIREME official stressed the need to invest in practical, action-oriented training, such as solar panel manufacturing and the development of community energy solutions. “We want to see, next year, women saying: I already have my own solar panel factory,” he challenged.
Manda also highlighted that the impacts of energy on daily life are already visible in various parts of the country. “More children are going to school, health centers operate better, vaccines are preserved in rural areas, and many households now have potable water.”
Despite these advances, he warned that many communities still depend on firewood and charcoal for cooking, with direct implications for the health and well-being of women. “The energy transition must be done with them and for them,” he said.
According to António Manda, the government commits to continue integrating a gender perspective in national energy plans, ensuring that the National Energy Transition Strategy also becomes a tool for social justice and equality.
“There are women already leading projects, operating solar systems, and advocating for environmental causes. But we need more. We need them in decision-making positions, designing and implementing solutions for Mozambique’s present and future energy,” he concluded.
Text: Felisberto Ruco
