Reconnaissance Energy Namibia’s Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations, Mwanyengwa Ndapewoshali Shapwanale and Taimi Itembu, Public and Government Affairs representative at ExxonMobil, have been recognized by the African Energy Chamber as two of the ’25 Under 40 Women Leaders’ driving transformation in the African energy landscape.
These two Namibian professionals, as acknowledged by the African Energy Chamber, stand as representatives of the women who are reshaping possibilities in a traditionally male-dominated sector and are at the forefront of the movement to eradicate energy poverty by 2030.
“The African energy sector serves as a catalyst for global development, and in this dynamic industry that powers the modern world, a select group of remarkable women have emerged as trailblazers. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) is proud to announce the ’25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars’ – individuals whose dedication, ingenuity, and unwavering commitment serve as beacons of hope and pillars of inspiration.”
According to the African Energy Chamber, Itembu has demonstrated leadership in energy and exploration, advocating for Africa’s strategic interests, investment protection, and creating a conducive operational environment.
Meanwhile, Shapwanale, the youngest member of Recon’s management team, plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s communication landscape.
Shapwanale is also a founding member of the Women in Oil, Gas, and Energy Network (WOGEN) in Namibia – an initiative aimed at promoting gender diversity and empowering women professionals within the oil, gas, and energy sector.
WOGEN envisions a transformative impact on women in this sector and the industry as a whole.