GreenCape is pleased to introduce to our stakeholders a new appointment to our Energy team. Wilberforce Chege has taken up the role of Senior Energy Analyst. For more information please get in touch with Wilberforce by email.
Wilberforce Chege (Senior Energy Analyst) 
What is your background expertise and how does that relate to what you are doing now?
I studied Civil Engineering at UCT then proceeded to do my masters in transport engineering at UCT and finished the masters in the Netherlands. I then came back to South Africa and worked as a transport engineer and later as project manager in local and international transportation engineering projects. In addition to my work, I pursued an MBA from Edinburgh Napier University in Scotland (UK) specialising in Project Management, Leadership, and Innovation. These skills, expertise and experience will be crucial in growing the sustainable transport and energy storage sector desk at GreenCape and in our national mandate on this sector.
What kind of impact are you hoping to have at GreenCape with this role?
I have always been passionate about the environment, sustainability, and the contribution of a healthy transport system as a catalyst for development and resilience in cities, and as part of the SDGs. I have seen the work that GreenCape has done over the years especially in transitioning to cleaner energy, cleaner fuels, reducing carbon footprints, and advocating for sustainability in general; and so after seeing the impact on the green economy, I was inspired to be a part of such an organisation.
What have you been working on since you joined us here at GreenCape?
I have been getting up to speed with the projects that GreenCape has done in the EV space, reading the MIRs and introducing myself to members of the team and our key stakeholders and external partners. I have also been making sure to get acquainted with internal processes and procedures and wrapping up all admin documentation before Q2 projects officially kick off and things get hectic.
Why have you chosen this particular career path?
I wish to apply my knowledge and skills to advance the 2030 sustainable development agenda, in the field of Sustainable low-carbon Transport, which is even more critical right now that Transport is highlighted in 75% of submitted NDCs (Nationally Determined Contributions), but few countries have actually decreased transport emissions. Worse still, low-carbon transport policy measures in Africa trails other regions globally. So, I want to utilise my skills, to contribute to sustainable development and the fight against climate change through transportation, in emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs) – in South Africa and the rest of the continent; as part of implementing the New Urban Agenda. No one does what GreenCape does.
Considering that you’ve started at GreenCape during a national lockdown and you haven’t yet had a chance to be at the office to physically interact with the rest of the team, what has been your first impression of GreenCape so far?
I found GreenCape to be relaxed, warm, and very social and welcoming, which is refreshing because you can tell that people are having a lot of fun and have a sense of humour. I love that. A truly great company culture.
What are your hobbies?
I love travelling/exploring, swimming and board games. I am usually the guy hosting game nights -playing chess, Uno, or monopoly.
