Gender Inclusion Key to Uganda's Energy Future, Says Lisa Chesney, UK Diplomat

• Lisa Chesney emphasized the need for broad, sustained collaboration to drive lasting change
• She pointed to importance of UK’s support through strategic funding in Uganda’s energy goals
• The need for inclusive policies and funding to bridge systemic gaps to empower women were highlighted

Highlighting the human impact of energy policy, the British envoy recently called for a transformation that balances inclusive growth with smart, future-focused planning. While recognizing Uganda’s progress, Lisa Chesney, British High Commissioner to Uganda, stressed the importance of deeper and cross-sector commitments as the foundation for lasting, systemic change.

Underscoring the value of international cooperation, Lisa noted the UK’s ongoing contributions to Uganda’s energy sector through targeted funding and partnerships aimed at driving inclusive and sustainable access.

Calling attention to systemic gap and for a human-centric growth, she advocated for policies and funding models that actively empower women to lead in key areas such as sustainable energy, inclusive electrification, and clean tech entrepreneurship.

Lisa emphasized that gender-responsive programming is not just about fairness, it is a strategic driver of national and economic growth, from boardrooms to local communities and public institutions, creating meaningful opportunities for women and girls to contribute to Uganda’s energy future.

“Development that excludes women is delayed development.” “These women are not just participating in the sector, they are shaping its future,” Lisa said. “Gender inclusion is not just the right thing to do-it’s smart economics,’ she added, underscoring its role in building stronger institutions, improving outcomes, and fostering community resilience.

Encouraging young women to confidently assert their presence, Lisa reminded them that their unique perspectives and expertise is key to building a stronger, more innovative energy sector in Uganda.