The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) announced the appointment of Carol Koech as its new Vice President for Africa on August 1, 2025. In this capacity, Carol will spearhead efforts to expand GEAPP’s footprint across the continent, focusing on innovative blended finance solutions to position the organization as a leading force in clean energy development in Africa.
Carol Koech brings more than 20 years of extensive experience in energy access, private-sector transformation, and regional leadership throughout Africa. She previously served as Strategy Director for Sustainability and Thought Leadership at Schneider Electric, where she played a key role in shaping the company’s global sustainability initiatives and led programs that increased energy access for over 50 million people worldwide.
Prior to that, she was Schneider Electric’s Country President for East Africa, overseeing regional expansion, forging strategic partnerships with governments and industries, and promoting inclusive, sustainable business growth. Her leadership experience also includes senior roles at General Electric and Unilever.
“Carol’s appointment signifies a significant step forward for GEAPP’s initiatives in Africa,” stated CEO Woochong Um. “Her profound understanding of Africa’s energy landscape, her dedication to equity and access, and her leadership in navigating complex environments will be instrumental as we advance our mission. She will be central to our efforts to build multi-stakeholder networks, foster collaborations with governments, businesses, and entrepreneurs, and ultimately deliver transformative results that improve lives and boost economies.”
Expressing her enthusiasm, Carol Koech said, “I am honored to join GEAPP and to lead this impactful journey across Africa. Access to clean, reliable energy is fundamental to inclusive economic growth. I look forward to collaborating with our strong network of partners to implement bold, country-driven strategies like Mission 300—empowering communities through job creation, supporting just transitions, and unlocking green growth across the continent.”
With over 600 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa still without access to electricity, Carol joins GEAPP at a critical juncture as the organization scales up initiatives like Mission 300. This public-private-philanthropic initiative, led by the World Bank and the African Development Bank with support from GEAPP, the Rockefeller Foundation, SEforALL, and other partners, aims to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030, fostering economic growth and job creation.
