The Zimbabwean renewable energy consultant, Thiapo Valentini, argued this Wednesday (11) in Maputo that Mozambique has all the conditions to take on a leadership role in the continent’s energy transition, describing the country as “the future energy powerhouse of Southern and Central Africa.”
Valentini spoke during the Summit and Open Class of the GMT Network of Women in Clean Energy and Climate Action, where he highlighted the country’s potential not only because of the diversity of its energy matrix — which includes natural gas, hydropower, and solar — but also due to its capacity to integrate innovative and inclusive technological solutions.
“The only energy resource Mozambique has yet to explore is nuclear. But everything else is here. The country holds a strategic position, abundant resources, and, with political will and the right investment, can become the backbone of the regional energy market,” stated the expert, praising the Mozambican government’s advances in expanding energy access. During his speech, Valentini emphasized the importance of ensuring that the energy transition includes women in all phases of the value chain, advocating for a deliberate focus on scientific and technological education starting from primary school.
“Female participation cannot be just rhetoric. Real empowerment is needed through training, connectivity, access to energy, and inclusion in markets. Educating a girl transforms a family and, consequently, a nation,” he stressed.
The expert, with extensive experience in the energy sector, explained that he is collaborating with African partners to implement technological solutions to connect remote schools to the internet and provide solar kits that guarantee continuous access to energy. In parallel, he focuses on creating mini-grids and educational projects centered on digital and scientific skills, especially in rural areas.
Valentini concluded his speech with a note of encouragement to Mozambican youth, saying, “It is time to stop dreaming and start doing. Mozambique has everything to be a reference in clean energy — now is the time to act.”
Text: Felisberto Ruco
