In this episode of Blindspot Africa, Charles Gyamfi Ofori speaks with Michelle Mwambela, CEO of the Association of Women in Energy and Extractives in Kenya (AWEIK), about the importance of gender inclusion and partnerships in Africa's energy and extractive sectors.

The discussion explores the barriers that continue to limit women's participation across mining, energy, and extractive value chains—from social and cultural biases to limited access to finance and technical opportunities. Michelle also highlights the progress being made through education, technology, and targeted advocacy, while emphasizing that meaningful inclusion requires more than policy commitments.

The conversation further examines why gender equity is central to a just energy transition, discussing energy access, clean cooking, economic empowerment, and how women and youth can play a greater role in delivering sustainable energy solutions. Michelle shares AWEIK's work in strengthening women's participation through skills development, mentorship, and community-based financing models that support clean energy adoption.

The episode concludes with a call for African governments to move beyond policy formulation and invest in effective implementation, ensuring that women, youth, and vulnerable communities are not left behind in the continent's transition to a sustainable energy future.