About me

Hello, I’m Grace Kalowa Kaonga, a purpose-driven leader passionate about transforming Africa’s energy landscape through sustainability, equity, and innovation. With over a decade of experience across the public, private, and development sectors, I specialize in renewable energy project leadership, environmental and social governance (ESG), gender inclusion, and climate resilience.

Currently, I serve as the Country Lead at JCM Power in Malawi, where I oversee national operations, strategic growth, stakeholder partnerships, and project development for clean and inclusive energy solutions. My work is grounded in the belief that true progress happens when people, communities, and the environment are all part of the solution.

 

Professional Experience

  • JCM Power, Malawi | Jan 2025 – Present

    In my current role, I lead JCM Power's country-level operations in Malawi. I develop and execute strategies that drive business growth, expand market presence, and ensure our projects align with national energy goals and global sustainability standards. I oversee financial performance, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement—while managing high-performing, cross-functional teams. My leadership focuses on innovation, strategic growth, and meaningful impact in the renewable energy sector.

  • Senior Social Performance Specialist

    JCM Power, Malawi | July 2022 – Dec 2024

    I led the design and implementation of environmental and social management plans for JCM Power’s infrastructure projects. This included ensuring compliance with IFC Performance Standards, national policies, and sustainability regulations. I worked closely with internal departments and external stakeholders to deliver ESG research, sustainability reporting, and corporate social responsibility initiatives—all while leading a dedicated social performance team to achieve our sustainability goals.

  • Gender Inclusion Specialist

    JCM Power, Malawi | Apr 2020 – Jun 2022

    At JCM Power, I designed and executed gender inclusion strategies that promoted equality and empowered women in both corporate and community contexts. My role included staff training, partnership development, and implementation of inclusive programs aimed at integrating gender perspectives across our operations. I also monitored and evaluated gender outcomes, and led community engagement efforts that reflected our values of inclusion and equity.

  • Gender Advisor

    Concern Worldwide, Malawi | Oct 2017 – Dec 2018

    I was responsible for mainstreaming gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) across Concern Malawi’s programs. I developed tools for GESI analysis, supported program design, and trained staff and partners in transformational approaches. I also contributed to M&E strategies and helped secure funding for strong gender-responsive programming. This role strengthened my advocacy and technical capacity in gender-based programming within humanitarian and development settings.

  • Undersecretary

    Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) | Jan 2017 – Oct 2017

    As head of the Commission’s Project Management Unit and administrative division, I led the implementation of human rights initiatives, oversaw administrative operations, and contributed to policy development. This role strengthened my leadership in governance and organizational development.

  • Gender and Women’s Rights Officer

    MHRC, Malawi

    In this capacity, I advocate for women's rights, monitor implementation of related policies, and support the development of inclusive legal and programmatic frameworks. I conduct research, report on violations, and collaborate with various stakeholders to promote and protect the rights of women nationwide.

  • Human Rights Investigations Officer

    MHRC, Malawi

    I conducted investigations into alleged human rights violations, prepared comprehensive reports, and contributed to monitoring and evaluation activities. This role laid the foundation for my evidence-based, justice-oriented approach to social and environmental governance.

  • Secondary School Teacher

    Ministry of Education, Malawi | Aug 2009 – Dec 2010

    Early in my career, I taught at the secondary school level—developing lesson plans, assessing student progress, and shaping young minds. This role nurtured my passion for knowledge-sharing and capacity-building.

  • Sales Representative

    Gestetner NCR, Malawi | Aug 2009 – Dec 2010

    In the private sector, I gained experience in sales strategy, target achievement, and customer relationship management—skills that continue to support my stakeholder engagement and communication work today.