Strathmore University hosted the launch of the inaugural East Africa Executive School, a programme designed to equip senior professionals with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to accelerate the region’s energy transition.

The week-long initiative, running from 22 to 26 September 2025, is spearheaded by the RES4Africa Foundation in collaboration with the Strathmore Energy Research Centre (SERC), supported by the Enel Foundation, and organised with the backing of the Mattei Plan for Africa to equip decision-makers with the tools and knowledge to drive change in the region’s energy landscape.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Lorenza Gambacorta, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Italy in Kenya, said Italy is supporting programmes for investing in people, those who can design, implement, and maintain renewable energy systems.

“Skilled professionals can bridge the gap between finance and technology. Training in both technical and financial aspects of renewable energy can help unlock access to international funds, loans, and grants that are crucial for energy projects,” said Gambacorta.

According to Giulia Genuardi, Managing Director, Enel Foundation, the Nairobi edition builds on the successful regional programmes previously held in Southern Africa and North Africa, reflecting a deliberate shift toward decentralising training and tailoring solutions to regional realities.

“Use the knowledge from the course to become leaders in energy transition, always remembering that the transition is context-specific and must be shaped to each country’s unique needs,” said Genuardi.

From left: Roberto Virgotti, Secretary General, RES4Africa Foundation, Giulia Genuardi, Managing Director, Enel Foundation and Prof. Izael Da Silva, Strathmore University, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research and Innovation, pose for a commemorative photo.

For East Africa, where demand for sustainable, reliable, and inclusive energy solutions is growing rapidly, Roberto Virgotti, Secretary General, RES4Africa Foundation, emphasised that Africa must harness emerging technologies and strategic partnerships to secure a resilient and sustainable energy future.

“If Africa is to meet its energy and climate ambition, annual investment across the energy sector must almost triple through 2030, with a strong focus on the domestic energy system and to achieve this, collaboration will be key,” attested Virgotti.

Over five intensive days, participants will explore critical themes shaping the continent’s energy future. Sessions will delve into innovation and emerging renewable technologies, investment in infrastructure and grid flexibility, productive uses of energy and e-mobility, digitalisation and cybersecurity, and carbon markets and data-driven energy access.

Prof. Izael Da Silva, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, Strathmore University, highlighted the broader significance of the programme, noting that it enhances the South–North global partnership in addressing energy challenges.

With Africa’s median age standing at just 19 years, he described the continent as “the continent of the future,” urging participants to make the most of the opportunity by networking, asking critical questions, and building the knowledge and capacity needed to drive meaningful change.

Beyond the classroom, the East Africa Executive School will also play host to the grand finale of wAtt-boost – Youth Powered Start-Up in Africa, on September 24, 2025, an Enel Foundation initiative spotlighting the ingenuity of young entrepreneurs building renewable energy-focused businesses across the continent. This integration of executive training and entrepreneurial innovation underscores a shared belief that Africa’s energy transition must be both top-driven and youth-led.

By building local capacity and fostering collaboration, the school is positioning East Africa to meet its growing energy demands and lead the continent in pioneering sustainable solutions.

Article written by Stephen Wakhu.