Lesego Patiance Moshikaro-Amani

Lesego Moshikaro-Amani is a South African economist with a passion for development economics and sustainable growth. Coming from one of the most unequal countries in the world, where unemployment remains critically high, Lesego is dedicated to promoting inclusive economic development that is both socially equitable and environmentally sustainable. Her passion comes from a vision of creating a world where economic opportunities are accessible to all, particularly in communities that have historically been marginalised.

Lesego’s expertise lies in inclusive industrial policy, with a particular emphasis on emerging industries like battery energy storage value chains and the rapidly growing electric vehicle sector in South Africa. In her work, she also places a strong emphasis on skills development and training, ensuring that workers are equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in a green economy.

In addition to her work in electric mobility, Lesego is passionate about fostering skills development and expanding job creation in the small business sector. She believes that empowering small and medium-sized enterprises is crucial for driving inclusive economic growth and addressing South Africa's of poverty and unemployment. Lesego has a Master’s degree in Commerce specialising in Development Economics from the University of Cape Town.

Short interview

What's your learnings from the fellowship?

During the fellowship, I gained valuable insights into what a sustainable transport transformation could look like in the South African context. The transition is complex, which highlights the critical role of partnerships and collaborations in driving this change. Developing key policies and guiding strategic frameworks is essential to ensure that the transition is inclusive, safe, and just, taking into account the needs of all stakeholders, especially those most vulnerable.

Additionally, it is crucial to prioritise the development of local manufacturing capabilities across the continent. This not only promotes job opportunities in electric mobility but also helps establish new industries, which are vital for long-term economic growth and resilience in Africa. By focusing on building local capacity, we can ensure that the transport transition leads to broader benefits, fostering sustainable development and industrialisation. 

Partnerships and local capacity building are key to ensuring a sustainable transport transition that is inclusive, safe, and unlocks new opportunities jobs, and industries that drive inclusive growth.