By: Mthulisi Sibanda
Global superstar, Akon, is among the nominees for the African Utility Week Industry Awards to be conferred in Cape Town South Africa later this month.
The Senegalese-American singer, rapper, songwriter, businessman, record producer and actor who has been nominated for the “Outstanding Contribution Award: Power” gained recognition with his “Akon Lighting Africa” initiative, which is benefitting various countries in the continent.
Five other finalists are vying for the award.
Akon Lighting Africa is premised on the fact 600 million Africans still do not have access to electricity, particularly in rural areas. In far too many parts of Africa, night-time economic activities are practically non-existent.
Launched in February 2014 Akon, Philanthropist Thione Niang and Entrepreneur Samba Bathily, started up this initiative aimed to develop an innovative solar-powered solution that will provide African villages with access to a clean and affordable source of electricity.
Meanwhile, finalists for this year’s African Utility Week Industry Awards have been announced. The final selection has a distinctly feminine feel with an all women cast and a strong line-up of ladies amongst the finalists for the coveted awards for leading energy and water professionals. Former South African President Nelson Mandela’s personal assistant, Zelda la Grange, is this year’s guest speaker at the awards.
She currently serves as the Patron for the First for Women Foundation, is non-executive Director of the non-profit organisation Healing Hands and annually acts as a coordinator of Bikers for Mandela Day. More than ten awards will be conferred.
The awards are scheduled for the second day of the African Utility Week, set for May 16-18.
