On April 17, 2025, the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) successfully concluded the 2025 edition of its flagship Women in Energy (WIE) initiative with a powerful Forum and Dinner at Hotel Africana under the theme: "Enhancing Women's Participation in the Energy Sector." Since its inception in 2019, the WIE initiative has served as a cornerstone of ERA's Corporate Social Responsibility program, advancing gender inclusion in the energy sector.

Officiated by the Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development (Minerals), Hon. Phiona Nyamutoro, the event highlighted the imperative of inclusivity in Uganda's energy transition. "This forum is no longer a calendar event," she remarked. "It's a movement bold enough to dismantle structural barriers and redefine the composition of Uganda's energy sector." She called for increased investment in young female talent and the establishment of mentorship cultures to drive systemic transformation. With fewer than 30% of Ugandan girls pursuing STEM-related courses at the university level, Hon. Nyamutoro termed it a "sobering reality" that must urgently be addressed.

The WIE Forum convened an influential and diverse gathering of leaders, policymakers, educators, industry experts, and aspiring professionals. It served as a dynamic platform for sharing success stories, co-creating inclusive visions, and discussing actionable strategies for a more gender-balanced energy future. The theme resonated strongly with global and national commitments to gender equality and sustainable energy development.

British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney, delivered the keynote address, affirming that "development without women is delayed." She highlighted the link between gender equity and improvements in innovation, governance, and sustainability. Citing initiatives such as GET FiT, she reaffirmed the UKs commitment to supporting gender-smart partnerships in Uganda.

ERAs Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Ziria Tibalwa Waako, emphasized that inclusion means more than access: "Equality isnt just about breaking ceilings; its about occupying decision-making tables." She called for collaboration with the Ministry of Education to promote STEM among girls, ensuring increased participation and leadership in the energy sector.

ERA Board Chairperson, Dr. Sarah Wasagali Kanaabi, acknowledged the progress of women in leadership roles but pointed out the persistent gender imbalance in the sector, with a 25:75 female-to-male ratio. She advocated for a 50:50 target as a long-term goal.

The Forum featured three engaging panel discussions focused on empowering girls and women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). With less than 30% of girls enrolling in STEM courses at higher education levels, panelists explored solutions to close this gap.

Participants included students from Mackay College, Lubiri Secondary School, Kawempe Muslim School, and engineering students from Makerere University, Uganda Christian University, and Busitema University. They engaged with professionals and sector executives, gaining insights into overcoming gender disparities in the energy sector.

The 2025 Women in Energy Forum served as a resounding call to action for sustained efforts to promote gender equality in Ugandas energy industry. Discussions and commitments from the event are expected to catalyze a new generation of women leaders in energy, contributing to a more diverse, inclusive, and resilient sector.

Research shows that women in energy continue to face underrepresentation in technical and leadership roles, wage disparities, limited advancement opportunities, and challenges in balancing work and family responsibilities. These systemic issues require deliberate and continuous interventions. By fostering collaboration across stakeholders and creating supportive environments, the WIE Forum has reinforced its role as a catalyst for change, empowering Uganda's future female energy leaders.