350Africa.org and partners have honoured some ten outstanding Africans and institutions promoting renewable energy drive in the continent as part of Africa week activities. 350Africa.og and its partners under the AfrikaVuka network have awarded individuals, institutions and organizations that have made significant contributions to building and supporting sustainable, community-centered, equitable, and affordable energy access in Africa. Cameroon born Dr Richard Munang is amongst the happy laureates.
The initiative which commenced with a public-led nomination exercise, was followed by a vetting process to select suitable candidates. It culminated in the delivery of trophies to the honorees during Africa week beginning May 25.
The honorees represent actors who have played a critical role in promoting decentralized, affordable renewable energy projects, advocating for inclusive energy policies, or empowering communities with clean energy solutions in the continent.
The awards underscore the essential role of renewable energy in addressing the dual challenges of energy access and the climate crisis faced by the continent. As Africa suffers escalating impacts of the climate crisis, grassroots groups are not only resisting fossil fuel projects but also driving a renewable energy revolution, igniting hope for a liveable and sustainable energy future for all.
The trophies have been awarded to renewable energy heroes in 10 locations across the continent including Benin, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Senegal, Uganda, Cameroon, Bostwana, Kenya and Tanzanian.
Dr Richard Munang is the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Head of Global Environment Monitoring Systems.
Before his appointment, Richard was the Deputy Regional Director of UNEP Africa Office where he led and guided the seamless execution of UNEP’s programmes in Africa. Specifically, he led the implementation of the UNEP delivery model at both strategic and operational levels using a unified approach to involve the entire UN development System. He also innovatively devised thought solutions in key cross-cutting areas like food systems and One-Health, highlighting the role of the environment in practical solutions, leveraging a data-driven approach to inform policy and investments.
Richard was also the Climate Change Coordinator of the same office, where he guided the implementation of UNEP’s climate-resilient development strategy at national and regional levels, leading programs on climate change, innovative financing, food security, and clean energy in over 50 countries, providing technical support, and capacity building to ensure climate action policies and investments are informed by the latest science and empirical data of what works. He fostered alliances with key regional organisations, stakeholders, and governments. He has extensive programming, policy implementation experience, strategic influencing, thought leadership, coordination, program management, partnerships, communications, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy.
By Elias Ngalame
