CAPE TOWN, South Africa, At African Energy Week (AEW) 2025, bp highlighted its commitment to promoting women in Africa’s energy sector through the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) gas project on the Mauritania–Senegal maritime border. The initiative focuses on training female engineers, fostering role models, and integrating women into decision-making processes to strengthen energy security and equitable growth.

Taelo Mojapelo, CEO of bp Southern Africa, emphasized the need for inclusive participation, noting that 65% of GTA project beneficiaries are women. “Your supply chain should reflect your customer base, and training women engineers creates role models within the industry,” she said.

Panelists underscored pathways to expand women’s roles. Dr. Tina Unachukwu, CEO of One Titanium Tubulars Ltd., highlighted training as key: “When you train a woman, you train a generation. Women at the table bring diversity of opinions.” Stephanie Comardelle of S&P Global emphasized education as the foundation for leadership and greater sector participation.

Policy and budget measures were also discussed. Adam Sow of Petroci Holding cited gender parity policies in Ivory Coast, while Marieme Sav Sow of TotalEnergies urged allocating budgets to women-led initiatives and SMEs.

The session reinforced that empowering women in energy promotes innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development across Africa.

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