Facilitating gendered and socially inclusive energy transitions in sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Addressing the challenges of energy transition requires a meaningful integration of gender and social inclusion dimensions into energy frameworks. Despite a long history of efforts towards gender mainstreaming, energy frameworks often neglect these dimensions. This study explored how recent developments in energy frameworks in sub-Saharan African countries integrate gender and social inclusive dimensions into energy transition initiatives to support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 7. The study used a systematic review of 46 publicly available energy frameworks from 18 sub-Saharan countries, spanning from 2001 to 2023. The results revealed that these frameworks continue to apply a narrow view of the gender dimension. Most of the frameworks lack clearly defined, measurable gendered indicators, undermining the ability to track progress towards achieving gendered outcomes in access to clean, affordable and sustainable energy. In addition, the social inclusion dimension is often overlooked in the frameworks. To address these gaps, the study developed a practical guideline for including clear, measurable indicators to advance socially inclusive and transformative gender-aware energy transitions.