RASCOM congratulates Madam Mataboge on election as AU Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy

The Regional African Satellite Communications Organisation (RASCOM) has extended its warmest wishes to Lerato D. Mataboge on her election as the African Union (AU) Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy. The appointment, announced on February 12, 2025, recognizes Madam Mataboge’s exceptional leadership, dedication, and contributions to advancing Africa’s infrastructure and energy sectors.

Ms. Lerato Mataboge who currently holds the position of Deputy Director-General in the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) in South Africa boasts an impressive track record. She is the founder and former Trade Invest Africa, an initiative aimed at promoting sustainable partnerships between governments and the private sector, with a particular emphasis on boosting intra-Africam trade and investment in infrastructure and energy.

In a letter signed by Timothy Adi Ashong, Director General of RASCOM, the organization praised Madam Mataboge’s commitment to driving transformative change across the continent. “Your appointment to this esteemed position is a testament to your dedication, experience, and unwavering commitment to advancing Africa’s infrastructure and energy sectors,” the letter stated. “As we strive towards greater regional integration and technological advancement, I am confident that your leadership will play a pivotal role in driving Africa’s infrastructure transformation, particularly in digital connectivity and energy accessibility—two critical enablers of sustainable development.”

Her election comes at a pivotal moment for Africa, as the continent seeks to address critical challenges in infrastructure development and energy access. With over 600 million Africans lacking access to electricity and significant gaps in digital connectivity, her leadership will be instrumental in shaping policies and initiatives that accelerate progress in these areas.

As AU Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, Madam Mataboge will oversee efforts to enhance regional integration, promote sustainable energy solutions, and expand digital infrastructure. Her role will be critical in ensuring that Africa’s infrastructure and energy sectors are aligned with the continent’s Agenda 2063, which envisions a prosperous, integrated, and technologically advanced Africa.

RASCOM, a leading organization dedicated to advancing satellite communications across Africa, has pledged its full support to Madam Mataboge and the African Union in achieving these ambitious goals. In his letter, Director General Timothy Adi Ashong emphasized RASCOM’s commitment to collaborating with the AU to bridge the digital divide and ensure that even the most remote communities have access to reliable connectivity.

“RASCOM remains committed to collaborating with the African Union and your esteemed office to enhance satellite communications across the continent,” the letter stated. “We look forward to engaging with you in shaping policies and initiatives that will accelerate Africa’s digital and energy ambitions.”

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye