USAID Expands Initiative to Increase Gender Equality in the Energy Sector
Engendering Utilities Newsletter | July 2019
Engendering Utilities Expands!
Nine new partner utilities partners from eight countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Caribbean represent a significant expansion of USAID’s Engendering Utilities program.
USAID's successful Engendering Utilities program welcomes nine new partner utilities committed to unlocking opportunities for women in their organizations. Engendering Utilities now works with 17 partners in 14 countries, demonstrating the U.S. Government’s commitment to women’s economic empowerment worldwide. Engendering Utilities is a key activity contributing to the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity (W-GDP) Initiative, launched by the White House, which is the first-ever whole-of-government initiative focused on advancing women’s full and free participation in the global economy. By 2025, W-GDP aims to reach 50 million women through innovative and effective programs, such as Engendering Utilities.
Significantly updated and enhanced in 2019, this framework provides global best practices and practical resources to implement gender equality interventions throughout the employee life cycle.
In 2016, Engendering Utilities began working with seven utilities to improve gender equality and enhance performance. All seven partners expanded their talent pools and diversified their organizations.
After working with Engendering Utilities, Eko Electricity Distribution Company hired its first female line workers, increasing opportunities for women in Nigeria’s traditionally male-dominated energy sector.
From July 8-12, 2019, more than 50 representatives from Engendering Utilities' 17 partner utilities convened in Amsterdam for the Gender Equity Executive Leadership Program. Developed by USAID and Georgetown University McDonough School of Business, this program delivers a best-in-class curriculum that spans the breadth of the employee life cycle.
