Globeleq Appoints Edouard Wenseleers as CDO

Globeleq, an independent power company operating in Africa, has appointed Edouard Wenseleers as Chief Development Officer (CDO), Wenseleers will join the company’s Executive Committee and oversee Globeleq’s business development activities across Africa.

Wenseleers brings over 15 years’ experience in the African power sector and has played a leading role in advancing Globeleq’s development portfolio since joining the company in 2018. Most recently serving as Managing Director, Business Development and Head of East Africa, he has led numerous development, acquisition and investment initiatives that have strengthened Globeleq’s position as one of Africa’s leading energy transition platforms. He also had overall responsibility for the company’s operations and asset management in Kenya. Wenseleers succeeds John Smelcer, who has decided to step away from the business to prioritise family commitments, following a highly successful tenure leading Globeleq’s development activities.

During his time at Globeleq, Wenseleers played a key role in the financial close and construction of the 52 MWp Malindi Solar project and successfully led the financial close of the 35 MW Menengai geothermal project in Kenya, while also overseeing strategic acquisitions and growth opportunities across East Africa and Zambia. He played a leading role in the acquisition of Norfund’s 51% stake in Lunsemfwa Hydro Power Company. Prior to joining Globeleq, Wenseleers spent ten years with ENGIE, where he contributed to the successful development of major power projects in Morocco before establishing and leading the company’s East Africa presence from Nairobi.

Jonathan Hoffman, Chief Executive Officer of Globeleq, said:

“Edouard’s appointment reflects both his significant contribution to Globeleq over the past eight years and the depth of leadership talent within our organization. He has consistently demonstrated the ability to originate, develop and deliver complex projects in some of Africa’s most dynamic markets. As we continue to expand our development portfolio and pursue new opportunities, I believe Edouard is the right leader to get the most out of our team and deliver value for our business and the communities we serve.”

Edouard Wenseleers, Chief Development Officer:

“Globeleq has built one of the strongest development platforms in Africa, with a diverse pipeline of projects that can deliver meaningful value for our shareholders, customers and host countries. I am excited to work with our teams and partners across the continent to advance high-quality opportunities, reach key project milestones and convert our pipeline into operating assets that contribute to economic growth and energy security.”

Globeleq is a leading developer, owner, and operator of electricity generation in Africa, delivering tailored energy solutions and supporting the region’s energy transition. Since 2002, Globeleq has built a diverse portfolio of independent power plants, currently generating 1,660 MW across 17 power plants in seven countries, with 665 MW under construction and more than 2,000 MW in development. Globeleq is owned by British International Investment and Norfund, the UK and Norwegian development finance institutions.