Power to the People: SHINE’s Efforts Toward Gender and Climate Justice
SHINE Collab recently hosted a thought-provoking webinar, the second in its Power to the People series, titled “How Community-led, Decentralized Renewable Energy Enables Gender and Climate Justice Solutions.” This series advocates for a community-driven, people-centered approach to renewable energy as opposed to traditional, technocratic methods. The webinar attracted a diverse audience with over 200 registrants and 81 participants from 17 African countries, illustrating the widespread interest in community-led renewable energy solutions.
Why a Gender-Just Energy Transition Matters
The importance of a gender-just energy transition was initially discussed in the series’ first webinar, Power to the People: A Gender Just Energy Transition and What It Means, which took place in June. During that session, speakers highlighted that women-led initiatives in renewable energy enhance community resilience, promote women’s leadership, and support sustainable livelihoods. This emphasis on centering women and community voices is crucial in ensuring that the energy transition benefits those most affected by energy poverty and climate change.
Key Insights from the Recent Webinar
In the latest webinar, SHINE explored how decentralized renewable energy can serve as a vehicle for both gender and climate justice. Conversations highlighted diverse regions, including rural areas in Zimbabwe, Nigeria, and Kenya, where aligning energy access with climate adaptation has helped strengthen community resilience. The session underscored the role that renewable energy plays not just in providing power but also in empowering communities, particularly women.
Notable Quotes:
- “Cross-sectoral approaches are crucial. We must think bottom-up to ensure grassroots solutions, focusing on women’s voices.” – Christine
- “Women face the brunt of energy poverty. Women must be prioritized in renewable access; they are solution providers.” – Olasimbo
- “Renewables need more than tech to be effective. We need ‘compassionate’ business models with cooperatives that put women at the center.” – Virginia
The Call to Action: Supporting Community-Led Solutions
SHINE’s mission is not only to educate but to encourage action toward gender-just and climate-conscious solutions. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Watch the Webinar: Gain deeper insights by viewing the complete discussion and exploring actionable solutions.
- Support Community-Led Initiatives: Join SHINE in advocating for and supporting grassroots, women-led renewable energy solutions.
- Advocate for Gender and Climate Justice: Spread awareness and encourage policies that prioritize women and marginalized communities in the energy transition.
Conclusion
SHINE’s Power to the People series serves as a beacon for those committed to a just energy transition, where community voices and women’s leadership take center stage. Through collaborative, people-first energy initiatives, SHINE aims to drive a future where energy access is synonymous with empowerment and resilience. To learn more or get involved, visit shinecollab.org and support the movement for a gender-just, community-led energy future.
For further information, contact:
- Tsitsi T. Mashandudze, Program Officer