Profile of Ambassador Ms Penny Mkhize Minister of International Cooperation State of African Diaspora ( SOAD) ,Life time and Development Agenda for Africa.
By Raymond Enoch
Paradigm News, Nigeria
Her Excellency Honorable Ms. Penny Mkhize serves as the Minister of International Cooperation for the State of the African Diaspora (SOAD). In this capacity, she plays a global pivotal role in fostering international partnerships and collaborations that does not only benefit the African diaspora but Africans globally.
Ms. Mkhize is also the founder and CEO of Pen CT, a South African-based company specializing in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions. Through Pen CT, she has been instrumental in advancing renewable energy solutions, including solar power solutions, water engineering, and wind power technologies, across various African countries.
Her leadership extends to diplomatic and commercial engagements, particularly in The Gambia, where she collaborates with Ambassador-at-Large H.E. Falai Baldeh. Together, they facilitate projects in sectors such as agriculture, agro-processing, tourism development, fisheries, renewable energy, and manufacturing.
Ms. Mkhize’s commitment to addressing historical displacement and identity loss among Africans was highlighted during the installation of King Bongwe II as Africa President of the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA). Her advocacy underscores the importance of reconnecting Africans with their heritage and promoting unity within the diaspora.
Sibusisiwe Penelope (Penny) Mkhize
Womens initiatives are aimed to motivate humanity more importantly women in STEM fields.
Penny’s tireless dedication to driving positive impact
includes notable stints at industry giants like IBM, Eskom, SAA, andArivia.kom, whereshe garnered
Engineering from Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), Penny sunlight, water, and solarpower, Pen CTis at the forefront of driving sustainable development across .She has
seamlessly transitioned into the IT sector, where she honed her expertise in Service .Penny Mkhize,is a dynamic entrepreneur and visionary African leader committed to leveraging
trailblazing company dedicated to harnessing modern technology to illuminate Africa countries and beyond boundaries through
the United Nations’ SustainableDevelopment Goals. Penny’s outstanding contributions have earned her
leadership,and compassion in and around Africa. Her unwavering commitment to buidinga brighter future for Africa serves
established the African Dream Fund in 2023. This nonprofit organization focuses on supporting African women in
the continent. Driven by a deep-seated commitment to gender equality and empowerment. Penny , a technologist whose armed with a Diploma in Electrical Engineering; Eccos & ESG expert, Award Holder is an Ambassador for change, for the betterment of the lives of the poor & vulnerable community especially in the rural society who uses her expertise in the field of SDG through her # campaign a project she started at her company at PenCT, to change lives for people in Africa Armed with a diploma in EPl electrical
Penny continues to champion important causes,emerging as a vocal advocate for women’s
led projects in critical sectors such as technology,energy, agriculture, and textiles,aligning closely with
with government officials to advance sustainable energy initiatives. She is also sought after as a speaker Summit in Cape Town.Penny Mkhize’s journey epitomizes the transformative power of innovation, change and is evident in her participation in energy missions to Comoros and Angola,where she collaborates
Quarter and the prestigious title of G100Country Chair for Sustainable Development Goals. In 2024, evidenced by her invitation to o prestigious events such as the Global Peace Awards and the UN
: Founder& Non-Executive Director of a company called Pen CTPTY LTD
Management and Bids, earning ITIL certification aong the way. By tapping into free energy resources such as
numerous accolades, including the Renewable Energy mpact Leader of the Year award from Solar
global recognition for her exceptional contributions. In 2019, Penny founded Pen CTPty Ltd, a
at prominent summits, including the transformation Leadership Summit in Cairo, Egypt, and the ESG
as an inspiration to individuals and organizations worldwide.
empowerment and a staunch opponent of gender based violence. Her influence extends globally.
In her role as Minister of International Cooperation, Ms. Mkhize has sponsored significant legislative texts, including one on “International Cooperation,” presented to the SOAD Parliament.
In this capacity, she is responsible for defining and implementing SOAD’s international cooperation policies. Her role involves establishing and managing diplomatic relationships, negotiating cooperation agreements, and identifying key areas for collaboration that align with SOAD’s objectives.
As a virtual state in Africa, SOAD inherently operates within the realm of international cooperation. Ms. Mkhize’s leadership is crucial in navigating this landscape, drawing on the rich history of African diplomacy that dates back to ancient times. Her efforts are aimed at fostering partnerships that promote the interests of the African diaspora globally.
Ms. Mkhize was appointed to her ministerial position following a cabinet reshuffle announced on September 16, 2024, by Prime Minister Dr. Louis-Georges Tin. This reshuffle was part of a strategic move to strengthen the government’s focus on international cooperation and other key areas.
Through her leadership, Ms. Mkhize plays a pivotal role in advancing SOAD’s mission to build and strengthen connections between African diaspora communities and the international community.
Ms. Mkhize’s multifaceted contributions reflect her dedication to leveraging technology, fostering international partnerships, and addressing socio-economic challenges to enhance the well-being and unity of the African diaspora.
