According to a 2022 report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), women occupy 40 percent of jobs in the photovoltaic (PV) solar sector. In Ghana however, anecdotal evidence suggests the number of women working in the sector is significantly lower than the global average.
Dutch & Co., the leading solar energy company, is committed to changing this narrative. The company, founded in 1994 and registered in Ghana, has been actively encouraging women to join its ranks. Of the 25 permanent staff employed by the company, 20 percent are women.
On International Women’s Day, we turn the spotlight on these women:
Anna Issahaku Damata is a solar engineer, who has been working for Dutch & Co. for almost three years. Originally from Tamale, Anna learned about Dutch & Co. through a friend when she was looking to relocate to the south of Ghana.
Ever since, she has been involved in several projects that have improved the efficiency, reliability and affordability of solar energy systems. Leading the solar teams for clients such as Total Energies, Fanmilk Danone, MTN Scancom and Kuipers Breeders, Anna’s work has earned her a nomination in the Rising Star category at the 2023 Ghana Energy Awards.
Speaking about her experience at Dutch & Co., Anna said, “I enjoy working at Dutch & Co. because no two days are the same. As a Solar Engineer, I’m in the field a lot constructing some major projects on behalf of our cherished clients. But when I’m not on the field in my boots, helmet and reflective vest, I’m in the office utilizing my computer skills and learning about the business side of our industry. I love what I do and I love working with my colleagues.”
Anna is joined in the field by two other highly skilled women, Mifa Gadzekpo and Rhoda Kudor. Both women began working at Dutch & Co. last year, during the company’s period of expansion. Mifa, who graduated from Mount Holyoke College in Boston, USA back in 2021, is now part of the team constructing Africa’s largest PV solar project. As the Project Management Assistant, Mifa supports the site manager and project manager to meet health and safety standards and more.
She said, “I’m pleased that Dutch & Co. is where I’ve launched my career as an engineer. Dutch & Co. is a very team-based inclusive place to work. Despite there being a hierarchy, I feel I can approach anybody and ask any questions. Working in an environment that encourages colleagues to ask questions fosters efficiency.”
Rhoda is the newest team member, yet has already made her mark as one of the company’s solar engineers. A recent electrical engineering graduate, Rhoda’s duties include analyzing client loads, conducting site surveys and preparing technical reports. Working closely with the company’s core solar team, Rhoda is delighted to work at a company so well regarded. She added, ”I’m privileged to be part of a team that has such a proven track record.”
Overseeing the daily operations is the company’s Business Administration Coordinator, Lucy Owusu-Boakyewaa, who has worked for Dutch and Co. for almost five years. Based in the company’s head office, Lucy has relished being a part of the solar energy industry.
She said, “I joined Dutch & Co. because I wanted to work in a corporate environment in which I could grow and expand my business skills set. At Dutch & Co. I have been able to do this. There are no limitations to what I can do here which has given me the opportunity to expand my knowledge.”
To learn more about Dutch & Co., please visit their website at: www.dutchandco.com.gh
