Ipangelwa’s journey to 25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars

The Africa Energy Chamber announced Munolwisho Elizabeth Ipangelwa, green hydrogen advisor at GIZ, as one of this year’s 25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars.

This accolade celebrates her commitment to advancing gender inclusivity in Namibia’s oil, gas and green hydrogen sectors, making her an anchor of hope for women and young professionals in the energy industry.

Ipangelwa joins a distinguished list of accomplished African women in the oil, gas and green hydrogen sectors.

Her fellow achievers include Amena Bakr, senior research analyst, Energy Intelligence, UAE; Amoetsoe Mkwena, senior associate, Watson Farley & Williams, Middle East; Janice Faria, CEO, Enagol: Energias de Angola; Jocelyne Machevo, communication, commercial and marketing manager, Vivo Energy Mozambique; Lilian Kamanja, electrical engineer, Kenya Power;

Kanni Touray, deputy Director general, petroleum commission, The Gambia and other esteemed professionals at major energy companies.

Speaking on the honor, Ipangelwa said: “I am truly honored and humbled to have been selected as one of the 25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars. What started as a personal passion has been acknowledged by the Africa Energy Chamber.

"This recognition is a testament to the fact that young women are making their mark in the energy sector. Many more women are doing extraordinary work in the energy space, and I believe this recognition shows that our efforts are not going unnoticed. I am also deeply grateful to my employer, GIZ, particularly the Green Hydrogen Business Alliance, for their continuous support,” she noted.



Journey

Reflecting on her journey, Ipangelwa shared: “This nomination has further fueled my passion and determination to push forward the Energy Agenda for Namibia. I see it as an opportunity to advocate for greater inclusion, particularly for women and young people in the energy sector. There is immense potential for MSMEs, especially those led by youth, to thrive in these emerging industries, and I intend to keep championing that cause,” she stated.

Her recognition is timely as Namibia positions itself as a front-runner in the green hydrogen movement.

She mentions that Namibia is ready for the green hydrogen movement: “Absolutely, Namibia is well-positioned to embrace the Green Hydrogen industry,” she continued.

“The government has demonstrated its commitment by launching the Green Hydrogen Strategy and supporting project developers who are already setting up in the country. Policies are currently being formulated, and the Namibia Green Hydrogen Programme is in place to provide further backing. The consistency and dedication of the Government of the Republic of Namibia in this regard are clear, and I am confident that the nation is prepared to take full advantage of this transformative industry.”