Muthoni Koinange

Excellent panel here talking about investor decision-making pertaining to social and environmental performance at the Economist Impact sustainability conference: Good Governance Africa pleased to be a media partner.

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Delving into details on Open Contracting today courtesy of UNDP and The Youth Agenda. The facilitator took us through the concept of Open Contracting, it's theory of change, and how youth organizations, the media, academics, think tanks etc can be at the forefront in monitoring procurement, at the national and county level. Open Contracting has been recognized globally as an effective strategy for combating corruption in public procurement. It enhances procurement processes through three key actions: ensuring the disclosure of procurement data, fostering engagement and participation from various stakeholders, and implementing accountability and feedback mechanisms for continuous improvement. Essentially, it’s about tracking public funds throughout the entire contract lifecycle, from planning to execution. #YouthAgenda #FightingCorruption #PublicOversight #PublicParticipation Victor Nyongesa

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A few weeks ago, I posted that I believe culture is the most critical factor in determining successful outcomes in MSD projects. I also mentioned that outstanding culture is difficult to describe but very easy to notice where it exists. How do we as leaders then nurture that outstanding culture? When MSD leaders think about building a strong culture, they must look far beyond superficial elements. The immediate risk could be to settle for Taylor Swift’s country-pop hit “You Belong with Me,” which offers a cautionary tale about relationships and sticking with the one who appreciates you most. While a sense of relatedness among team members is correlated with higher levels of coordination and an enhanced ability to solve complex problems, a strong culture demands far more than that. MSD and Resilience Projects deal with complex problems, requiring people who can be candid, innovative, disruptive, freely express themselves, and even disagree. This calls for high levels of inclusion, empowerment, empathy and trust (Margarita Aswani can relate). An inclusive culture is no longer just nice to have; it’s becoming a key factor in implementers’ ability to unlock performance and productivity, appeal to a range of diverse groups of stakeholders, and stave off implementation teams' burnout. However, MSD leaders can’t manage or transform their cultures in the same old ways. During my first encounter with an MSD project, Kim Beevers often reminded us, “Change of behavior needs to start with four actions: fostering understanding and conviction, reinforcing changes through formal mechanisms, developing talent and skills, and role modeling.” This was almost a daily reminder each time we had those “drills.” These four factors are critical for changing and then sustaining the mindsets and behaviors that allow for high performance. They are the building blocks. But within this influence model, there are power moves that MSD leaders can take to reinforce their transformation plans and drive a culture movement in their projects. After every two days for the next week , I will be posting each of these power moves.

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Some of the main take-aways from today’s Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) pertaining to energy infrastructure and specifically to how the REIPPPP experience has influenced govt policy regarding financing of future public sector projects.

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Govt to finalise Green Hydrogen Policy by year-end The Ministry of Mines and Energy aims to complete and enact Namibia's Green Hydrogen and Derivatives policy by the end of 2024, an official has revealed. Green Hydrogen Legislative Focal Person Mutindi Lydia Jacobs said the draft policy, which has been refined through international consultations, will be submitted to the Ministry by the end of September. The aim is to have this draft transformed into legislation before the year ends. She noted that the fundamental rationale is to create twofold green hydrogen-specific legislation. https://lnkd.in/dCiyj44s #namibia #greenhydrogen #policy #economy Green Hydrogen Namibia Tom Alweendo James Mnyupe, CA(SA)(Nam), CFA, CFP Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) NamGHA . Global African Hydrogen Summit

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Fix Political Parties, and All Else Will Follow In my previous work, I often encountered governance interventions that failed to recognize the critical role of political parties. These parties are the backbone of public leadership, supplying both leaders and policies when they secure a mandate. Over time, it became clear to me that improving how political parties operate and fulfill their functions is essential. If we want to avoid ending up with unqualified or ineffective leaders, shouldn’t we focus on helping parties choose the best among them? This would prevent us from being stuck with incompetent councillors, MPs, or even a President. Moreover, if a party’s manifesto is expected to shape its governing policy, why not assist in crafting that manifesto to ensure it is both realistic and aligned with the party’s capabilities? Unfortunately, political parties are often seen as unsafe or undesirable spaces to engage with, and most external support comes only after elections—a timing that, frankly, makes little sense. To address the leadership deficiencies and policy failures we witness in government, we must tackle the root of the problem: the political parties themselves. Corporates and big businesses tend to avoid engaging with political parties, considering it risky. Yet, it is these very parties that will shape the policy and economic environment in which businesses operate. It is crucial to develop strategies to ensure that political parties attract the best talent and are run efficiently. We cannot continue electing the weakest candidates in our society and expect better governance outcomes. Currently, political parties are poorly managed, often serving as mere vehicles for capturing power. Until we fix these organizations, our public affairs will continue to be mismanaged.

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IEA report backs Namibia’s push in renewable resources sector A new report on Namibia finds strong potential to deliver quality jobs and economic growth with supportive policies that unlock strategic investments in clean energy. With robust policy support in place, renewable energy can become a cornerstone of Namibia’s sustainable development and economic growth, according to a new report from the International Energy Agency (IEA) published last week. https://lnkd.in/dAZQEahp

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Clear frameworks for community benefit sharing in the #mining and #renewableenergy sectors are essential. However, I spoke to Manson Gwanyanya the Researcher and Representative for South and Anglophone Africa at the Business & Human Rights Resource Centre who emphasise that implementing these existing frameworks is key to delivering shared prosperity for the communities while respecting human rights whose land and resources are crucial for the #energytransition in Africa.”. Here is our full conversation: https://lnkd.in/daCuPpRP Centre for Environmental Rights Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association Natural Justice #justenergytransition #criticalminerals #humanrights

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Energy group’s latest blog, “Navigating the Future of South Africa’s Energy: Insights from the GCCA 2025 Report”, explores the evolving challenges and opportunities associated with national grid capacity. The GCCA 2025 report highlights regional constraints and prompts strategic considerations, offering valuable insights into South Africa’s energy transition. Click on the link below to find out more!  #SouthAfrica #GridCapacity #EnergyTransition

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Thanks Tom Alweendo for accentuating the essence and imminence of a pragmatic, inclusive and integrated approach to Africa's Energy Access and Security plan. Your approach to public communications, stakeholder engagement is unparalleled and inspiring. You are indeed laying the lattice for the solid, strategic, sustainable development of Namibia's Energy Industry. omar farouk ibrahim, Secretary General of African Petroleum Producers’ Organization has led this spirited crusade. Anibor Kragha of the African Refiners & Distributors Association is immersed in mission of midwifing a net zero Africa Downstream sector. Scott W. Tinker, PhD continues his evangelism for a #factuallycomplete and #completelyfactual perspective to the global energy transition discourse. Check these out: https://lnkd.in/gTUBbThe https://lnkd.in/gGX49rK8 That is why the #alloftheaboveapproach to the #globalenergytransition adopted by Greater Houston Partnership's, Houston Energy Transition Initiative (HETI) led by Jane Stricker. NJ Ayuk JD, MBA. advocates "for a pragmatic approach that embraces all forms of energy, including coal, natural gas, renewables and oil. #Norway has used oil to become rich. Why not Africans?" After all the jaw-jawing, punditry, is it time for the global energy community to come to terms with the fact that for #Africa it will have to be an integrated energy development approach? Tom Alweendo has posited that "... an immediate shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy is not practical for most African countries, including Namibia......This balanced approach is crucial for Namibia. It ensures that we can meet our immediate economic needs and tackle energy poverty, while steadily moving towards a sustainable and renewable energy future. This strategy sets a pragmatic example for the entire continent." #africaenergyfutures #investinAfricaenergy #defreezeAfricaEnergyFinance #theradicalmiddle #africaenergysecurityplan #africaenergyequity #africaenergyaccess Maggy Shino, Nangula Nelulu Uaandja, Dino Ballotti, Anibor Kragha, Peter Ntephe, Jude Kearney, RASHID ABDALLAH, Gbite Falade, Daere Afonya-a Akobo F.IoD , F.IMC ,CMC, Tony Attah, Ibilola Amao Ph.D FEI FNSE FIoD FAEng, Chris Hosek, Willy Verbrugghe, Jeffrey Blair, Christopher Olson, Mazda Denon, Giti Zarinkelk, P.E. F. SAME, Ufuoma Ewherido, Oghogho Effiom, C. Dir., Simeon Eburi, Rita Esuru Okoroafor, Ph.D., Nelia Mazula, MBA, PMP, Nathalie Lum, Ezinne Nnebocha, Olu Arowolo Verheijen, Abel Nsa, Odiong Ekanem, Prof Zainab Gobir, Olayemi Anyanechi

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To ensure no one is left behind and that the benefits of the clean energy transition are shared equally and equitably, Sustainable Energy for All launched a Demand Stimulation Incentive in Zambia, supported by the Government of Zambia, The Rockefeller Foundation, and the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP). The Demand Stimulation Incentive will lower the connection cost, making electricity accessible to millions of Zambians. It will also spur the uptake of energy-efficient, productive-use appliances, creating demand for green jobs and improving livelihoods in rural areas while diversifying Zambia’s energy mix. 🚀 BIG BETS! 🙌🏼 In their twin video address to the Zambia Decentralized Renewable Energy Days event held in Lusaka from April 11–12, 2024, President of The Rockefeller Foundation, Dr. Rajiv J. Shah, and CEO of SEforAll, Damilola Ogunbiyi, who is also the special representative of the UNSG for Sustainable Energy for All and co-chair of UN-Energy, commended H.E. President Hichilema for his partnership and commitment to accelerating clean energy access. “The Demand Stimulation Incentive is an excellent example of what we need to succeed. It is a first-of-its-kind incentive designed by our friends at SEforAll. It will stimulate demand in small businesses and public institutions, and it will support mini-grid developers to work with communities and encourage more productive uses of energy and electricity," said Dr. Rajiv. 🤝LEAVING NO ONE BEHIND 🌟 Damilola Ogunbiyi said, “Through the Demand Stimulation Incentive that SEforAll’s Universal Energy Facility manages, we will support mini-grid developers in working with communities to encourage productive uses of energy while helping public institutions connect to modern energy.“ “We envision positively impacting the livelihoods of 30,000 Zambians in rural areas and the welfare of over 100,000 Zambians through the electrification of schools, hospitals, and other community institutions. This solution will target 100 priority sites in 2024 and 2025. We are committed to ensuring no one is left behind,” added Damilola. Acumen’s Chief of Strategic Initiatives, Jiwoo Choi, said, “Among the 16 African countries that the Renewable Energy Access Challenge (REACH) is engaging, Zambia stands out as a priority and exemplar, thanks to the fast-growing distributed renewable energy ecosystem that is already in place, and that is possible due to an enabling policy environment under the Zambia government’s action-oriented leadership and deep network of local and international organizations working to support energy access for all.” 💬 Learn more in our joint press statement 🔽 ➡️ GEAPP: https://t.ly/_cRKe  ➡️ SEforALL: https://t.ly/5Xptm  ➡️ The Rockefeller Foundation: https://t.ly/Au89f Special recognition goes out to Maja Grsic and Mukabanji Mutanuka. Thank you for being humble, dependable, and committed on-the-ground teammates! #Minigrids #Zambia 🇿🇲

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“ESG implementation requires a multi-dimensional approach with a focus on collaboration amongst industry players. The question begs; is the country’s competition law regime flexible enough to accommodate these broader societal concerns? This being one of the emerging areas of competition regulation, various competition agencies around the world have taken steps to make the competition laws more ESG-friendly. For instance, the European Union has revised the guidelines to allow agreements among entities, that while they are competitors, are pursuing sustainability objectives. This is also similar to Austria’s amendment to the Cartel Act to incorporate sustainability exemptions on collaboration agreements with an environmental benefit. Other competition agencies, such as in the Netherlands, issue informal guidance to parties desirous of collaborating or cooperating on sustainability initiatives to ensure that competition is upheld in markets, while attending to ESG considerations.” Ninette Kaari Mwarania, MKIM

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How can we better equip our schools to teach sustainability? What initiatives have you seen that have made a difference? #EnvironmentalEducation #Sustainability #FutureLeaders #ClimateAction #EducationForSustainability #YouthEmpowerment

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Social Impact, ESG, and CSR in Defence Companies Operating in Africa: A Balanced Perspective! Defence companies working in Africa are often scrutinized for their social impact, adherence to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts. Balancing these responsibilities in a region with complex challenges requires commitment and a nuanced approach. Social Impact: The Dual Role: Defence companies can significantly impact Africa. They enhance security, which is crucial for stability and economic development, leading to better investment opportunities and infrastructure. However, there are concerns about exacerbating conflicts, human rights violations, and militarization. Transparency and actions that contribute to peace and stability are essential to mitigate these concerns. ESG: Responsible Operations Framework: ESG principles provide a framework for responsible operations. Environmental considerations are vital as defence activities can have substantial ecological footprints. Social aspects demand respect for human rights, fair labor practices, and positive community contributions. Governance involves maintaining high ethical standards, transparency, and accountability. Integrating ESG criteria into strategies ensures operations do not harm the environment, society, or governance structures in African nations. CSR: Tangible Community Benefits CSR initiatives offer immediate and tangible benefits to African communities. By investing in local education, healthcare, and infrastructure, defence companies can build strong relationships with the communities they operate in. However, CSR should not be token gestures but genuine efforts that align with broader ESG goals, creating sustainable, long-term benefits. The Balancing Act: Defence companies must balance operational objectives with social responsibilities. Prioritizing transparency and engaging with local communities, governments, and civil society organizations to address concerns is crucial. Building trust is essential and can only be achieved through consistent, ethical, and responsible behavior. Conclusion: Defence companies in Africa can drive significant positive change by balancing social impact, ESG, and CSR. By integrating these principles into operations and engaging with local stakeholders, they can contribute to the continent's stability and growth while maintaining ethical and social responsibilities. Achieving this balance is challenging, but the potential for a stable, prosperous Africa makes the effort worthwhile. #Sogaimpact #mcewanadvisorygroup #ESG #Africa #Sustainabilty #SocialImpact #defence

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