Regulating Green Energy for Sustainable Entrepreneurial Development in Africa: A Gender Focus Perspective

Purpose: Climate change and the effect of global warming is being felt across the world, Africa is one of the most vulnerable regions to the impacts of climate change. African women entrepreneurs face the triple jeopardy of dealing with the aftereffects of Covid-19, climate change and lack of electricity for their business ventures. Design/Methodology/Approach: Using a qualitative research method approach 20 small businesses owned by women entrepreneurs from South Africa and Nigeria, the two largest economies in Africa are sampled to understand the impact of the energy crises on their business ventures and livelihoods. Findings: Findings from the study indicate that for Africa to meet the SDGs as well the AU agenda 2063. There is a need for the government to provide legal backing and incentives for green energy development to promote a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem for women entrepreneurs. Practical Implications: The study provides an insight into the challenges faced by African women entrepreneurs as a result of the lack of sustainable energy. The study could assist policy makers in regulating and developing a legal framework for green energy on the African continent using a gender sensitive perspective. Social Implications: Africa’s energy crises significantly impact on women on the continent, from contributing to their business failures to impacting on women's personal security and socio-economic survival. Originality and Value: The study contributes to extant literature on African women entrepreneurship challenges and prospects. It also contributes to literature on green energy regulations in Africa from a gender sensitive perspective.