G20 dialogue puts women at the heart of South Africa's just transition

Experts say gender inclusion is key to a sustainable energy shift in emerging economies.

- By Nkateko Joseph Mabasa

As part of South Africa's G20 discussions ahead of the leaders' summit in November, Oxfam South Africa — in collaboration with the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) and Think Tank 20 — hosted a Women's Month event in Johannesburg focused on “powering equality” in the just energy transition.

The gathering brought together leaders in climate policy, finance, gender advocacy, and community development to answer a central question: 'Why does gender and inclusion matter for a just energy transition in emerging economies?'

The event was hosted by award-winning broadcaster and journalist Cathy Mohlahlana, who steered conversations between experts, activists and policymakers on the structural barriers that keep women and marginalised communities out of decision-making on energy solutions.

Emphasising the critical role of women's input, Oxfam South Africa's acting executive director, Nkateko Chauke, opened proceedings by stressing that a just transition must be inclusive to be effective.

"If you look around this room, it is full of mostly women and that in itself says something because we need to spotlight the leadership of women in this conversation and also the leadership of marginalised communities," said Chauke.

She said the future Oxfam envisages is one of equality, with the transition not only fair but sustainable for those most affected by climate change and energy poverty.

Tara Laan IISD Incentivizing Renewables Lead called attention to the global $1,5-trillion in fossil fuel support that often goes to the wealthiest, highlighting the availability of money to fund the just transition.

"We need to reallocate the vast funds that are currently allocated very inefficiently to fossil fuels to more productive purposes," said Laan.