16
Mar

As Rwanda marked International Women’s Day, Rwanda Energy Group (REG) commended women and girls for their vital contribution to the institution’s growth and their role in advancing the energy sector.

The event brought together REG’s senior management, female staff, and young women from its 33 branches across the country, including those working at power plants, substations, and offices, as well as interns and contractual staff.

Participants were honored with flowers as a token of appreciation, along with other gifts in recognition of their contributions, professionalism, dedication, and resilience.

The event also featured discussions on workers’ rights and the prevention of gender-based violence in the workplace, encouraging women to speak up and report any form of abuse.

REG’s Chief Executive Officer, Armand Zingiro, commended women for their exceptional role in the institution’s development, noting that their contribution is key to achieving REG’s objectives.

He stated: “As this year’s theme, ‘Empowered Women, Stronger Nation,’ reminds us, it is important to support women and provide them with equal opportunities.”

He further appreciated the Government of Rwanda for its continued efforts to empower women and girls across various sectors, which is reflected in the country’s development progress.

Zingiro added that REG remains committed to strengthening women’s skills and capacities, recognizing them as a pillar of professional excellence.

He said: “REG is committed to addressing all barriers that may hinder women in the workplace so they can perform at their best. When women thrive, both our institution and the country prosper.”

The event also included a panel discussion focusing on how women can be further empowered in the energy sector and how they can balance professional and family responsibilities.

The Chairperson of the Board of Directors of REG, the Guest of Honour, Dr. Didacienne Mukanyiligira, encouraged women and girls to believe in their abilities and continue striving in the technical careers they have chosen.

She said: “The technical fields you have chosen should empower you, not discourage you. At work, we support each other and collaborate to grow together. However, it is also essential to continue building your knowledge and skills.”

She also encouraged young girls to take responsibility early and to work collaboratively toward success.

She added: “Everyone should reflect and ask themselves: in my professional journey, what do I truly want to achieve?”

Dr. Mukanyiligira further urged women to continuously enhance their skills through training, including project management, to enable them to access leadership positions. She also called upon leaders to establish clear pathways that support more women in reaching decision-making roles.

The event also showcased innovations by youth in the energy sector. Students from École des Sciences Saint-Louis de Montfort Nyanza and Collège Sainte-Marie Reine Kabgayi, in partnership with Starlight Africa, presented projects aimed at solving energy-related challenges and improving efficiency. They were recognized and awarded by REG for their innovative ideas, as part of efforts to encourage youth participation in the development of Rwanda’s energy sector.

Women currently constitute 24% of the workforce at Rwanda Energy Group, with the institution committed to increasing this proportion to 30% in alignment with government targets.

Also read:

https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/34068/news/featured/reg-celebrates-womens-role-in-energyrecognises-students-for-innovations

For more Pictures:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/thenewtimes/albums/72177720332512290/