Deep Dive East: Unlocking Solar and Energy Storage Markets in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania

Hon. (Prof) Robinah K. Nanyunja, is an ecosystem builder, environmentalist and international development expert, with over 15 years of experience in leadership and promoting sustainable development and renewable energy. She is the President & Chair, Pilot International, a private sector driven social enterprise promoting global sustainable development, solar and renewable energy across Africa. She is a Former CEO, of Uganda Solar Energy Association, an umbrella body supporting over 300+ solar companies through policy advocacy, market expansion and facilitation access to finance. In July 2024, she hosted the inaugural Uganda National Solar Energy Expo that brought together hundreds of stakeholders to showcase their services, goods and the various solar technologies they offer. She is also the Host of the Trans Africa Investment Summit that fosters collaboration and partnerships development between Africa and the diaspora, whose theme for this year is powering Africa with Solar Energy.

Benjamin has been at SolarPower Europe since 2021 and currently oversees the association's international cooperation activities. He leads on engagement with the European Institutions on EU energy diplomacy, particularly through the Global Gateway Business Advisory Group and bilaterally with DG INTPA and DG NEAR. He also coordinates SolarPower Europe's International Solar Manufacturing Initiative (ISMI), represents the organisation to international organisations and in global fora, and is responsible for the acquisition and implementation of international cooperation projects with partners around the world. When he first joined SolarPower Europe, Benjamin coordinated the work of the Lifecycle Quality and Global Markets workstreams. Prior to joining the association, he worked in the Ambassador's office at the UK Permanent Representation/Mission to the EU. He has a Master's in EU External Relations from the University of Kent and can speak English and French.

Dr.-Ing. Matthew Josephat Matimbwi is an expert in Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency with working experience of more than 30 years. Dr.-Ing Matimbwi is an Executive Secretary of the Tanzania Renewable Energy Association (TAREA); Interim Chairperson for the East Africa Renewable Energy Federation; and Chairperson for the EAC Clean Cooking Stakeholders Network. He is leading the private sector in mainland Tanzania in unlocking business opportunities in renewable energy and energy efficiency sectors and supporting foreign companies that want to invest in Tanzania.

Murefu Barasa is chair of the Kenya Renewable Energy Association (KEREA), managing partner at EED Advisory, and a fellow at the Energy for Growth Hub, He has over 20 years of experience as a development practitioner focusing on energy, climate, and sustainability issues. Murefu previously worked for various organizations including Practical Action, Camco Clean Energy, the African Development Bank, and the International Finance Corporation (World Bank Group). He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Kenya University and a Master of Environmental Science degree from Yale University.

Serge Wilson MUHIZI is a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in sales, marketing, and the energy sector. He has held key roles, including Energy Project Analyst and Head of Membership & Partnership, contributing to strategic growth in Rwanda's energy landscape. Currently serving as CEO of Energy Private Developers (EPD), he leads a network of 200+ companies, advocating for a conducive business environment. Serge is actively engaged in climate finance, carbon markets, and renewable energy program evaluations. He holds an MBA and has undergone specialized training in energy and leadership, both locally and internationally.