ExxonMobil has been honored with the Environmental Social Governance (ESG) Leader of the Year award at the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference. The recognition celebrates the U.S. energy major’s long-term commitment to advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education across Africa, promoting workforce development and inclusive growth.
Empowering the Next Generation Through STEM
Building on this recognition, the award also highlights the success of STEM Africa, a program launched in 2024 by the ExxonMobil Foundation in partnership with Junior Achievement Africa. Designed to equip young Africans with essential skills for careers in energy and technology, the initiative has already made significant strides. Within its first year, STEM Africa reached more than 3,000 students and educators across Nigeria, Namibia, Angola, and Mozambique. Participants engaged in immersive learning and gained practical exposure to real-world STEM applications.
The program’s impact speaks volumes. According to collected data, 96% of students expressed strong interest in pursuing STEM careers clear evidence of the initiative’s ability to inspire ambition and close educational gaps. Beyond student engagement, STEM Africa also focuses on teacher development, training educators to deliver modern, industry-relevant curricula. As a result, the program creates a ripple effect that extends well beyond the classroom and into the broader community.
Driving Skills and Community Empowerment
Transitioning from education to empowerment, The STEM Africa efforts reflect a deeper commitment to social progress. “ExxonMobil’s impact extends far beyond production volumes; it’s about empowering people and communities,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “Through the STEM Africa program, the company is building a skilled workforce that will drive Africa’s future energy development while ensuring inclusivity and opportunity remain at the heart of progress.”
This education driven initiative aligns seamlessly with ExxonMobil’s broader ESG strategy. By integrating community development, environmental innovation, and workforce readiness into its operations, the company reinforces its role as a catalyst for sustainable growth across the continent.
Operational Excellence and Environmental Stewardship
Shifting focus to infrastructure and innovation, ExxonMobil continues to demonstrate its commitment to responsible energy development through key projects. The company advances deepwater operations in Nigeria and Angola, explores new frontiers in Namibia’s Walvis Basin, and leads the Rovuma LNG project in Mozambique.
Notably, the Rovuma LNG initiative incorporates carbon-reduction strategies and trains local engineers, reinforcing its dedication to environmental stewardship and local capacity building. These efforts reflect a holistic approach to energy leadership one that balances technical excellence with social and environmental responsibility.
The Energy Giant remains focused on education, innovation, and sustainability. Its ESG framework delivers measurable outcomes, from expanding access to education and creating jobs to lowering emissions and strengthening local expertise. Through these actions, the company continues to shape a more inclusive and resilient energy future for Africa.
