While Africa is faced with the challenge of enhancing energy access, the continent also strives to reduce emissions in alignment with climate goals. Stakeholders such as Nancy Murithi, Green Growth & Climate Change Officer at Kenya Association of Manufacturers, stand at the intersection of these goals. Murithi is recognized as a 20 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Star for her work in advancing energy efficiency and climate policy.
Veuillez donner un bref aperçu de votre parcours dans le secteur de l'énergie qui vous a conduit à votre fonction actuelle. Quelles sont les principales réalisations ou étapes dont vous êtes particulièrement fier ?
I began my career in energy after earning a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Moi University, later complementing it with an MSc in Energy Management. My journey has spanned technical roles at Icopower, where I supported over 50 companies to achieve 10–20% energy savings, to my current role as Green Growth and Climate Change Officer at the Kenya Association of Manufacturers. Here, I lead and contribute to sustainability programs, policy advocacy, and technical support for the annual Energy Management Awards. I am proud to have been recognized as Young Energy Professional of the Year (2024) and Professional Energy Woman of the Year (2021), and I also serve on national technical committees shaping Kenya’s climate and energy policies.
Le secteur de l'énergie est connu pour sa complexité. Quels sont les principaux défis auxquels vous avez été confronté et comment les avez-vous relevés pour atteindre vos objectifs ?
Working in a male-dominated field has meant overcoming bias and proving my technical expertise. I have addressed this by continuously sharpening my skills and knowledge — earning certifications such as Certified Energy Manager, Certified Carbon Auditing Professional, Diploma in Renewable Energy, and Green Transition Certification – while demonstrating impact through projects. Balancing technical rigor with stakeholder engagement was another challenge, which I navigated by building strong partnerships to ensure collective progress on sustainability goals.
Quels conseils donneriez-vous aux jeunes femmes qui aspirent à exceller dans le secteur de l'énergie ? Y a-t-il des stratégies ou des mentalités spécifiques qui vous ont aidée à surmonter les obstacles et à atteindre votre position actuelle ?
Hone your craft. In the energy sector, competence speaks louder than anything else. Build strong technical foundations – through certifications, advanced degrees, or hands-on projects. When your expertise is unquestionable, you earn credibility, influence, and a seat at the table. Say ‘yes’ more often: to new challenges and opportunities. Growth often comes from stepping into unfamiliar spaces. By saying yes to stretch assignments, training, or leadership roles, you accelerate learning, visibility, and confidence.
Seek networks and mentors: no one thrives in isolation. Surround yourself with peers, mentors, and professional associations. Strong networks open doors, provide resilience, and ensure you lift others as you rise. Above all, persistence and passion for sustainability turn obstacles into stepping stones. Energy transitions are complex and setbacks inevitable, but a deep commitment to building a sustainable future keeps you moving forward. With persistence and purpose, challenges become part of the journey rather than barriers.
Une carrière dans l'énergie peut être exigeante. Pouvez-vous nous décrire une journée typique de votre vie ?
No two days are alike, but most balance technical and strategic work. I might start by providing technical support to industries on carbon reduction, then move to stakeholder meetings on energy efficiency programs, contribute to policy proposals, and later analyze emerging energy trends. I also dedicate time to mentoring and training experts in energy management and sustainability. Each day is anchored in driving both practical and policy-level progress toward a greener industrial sector.
À l'avenir, quels changements ou progrès espérez-vous voir dans le secteur de l'énergie ? Comment envisagez-vous votre rôle dans l'élaboration de cet avenir ?
I hope to see greater renewable energy integration, stronger climate-smart policies, the decarbonization of hard-to-abate industries, and wider adoption of circular economy practices in Africa’s industries. My role will be to continue bridging technical expertise with policy advocacy, supporting manufacturers in their transition to low-carbon growth, while inspiring and mentoring the next generation of women leaders in energy.
