AWEIK WOMEN IN ENERGY AND EXTRACTIVES SERIES
In conversation with Linda Khakali
Director, Nukkari Mining Company
Linda Khakali, Director of Nukkari Mining Company, has had an inspiring journey in the energy and extractives sector. Her career began at the Council of Governors Secretariat, where she served as the Technical Lead for the Energy and Mining Committees. This experience exposed her to the policy aspects of the extractives sector, setting the stage for her further engagement in the sector. She later worked at the Office of the President and the County Government of Tana River, contributing to the Energy & Petroleum Masterplan Taskforce. These roles deepened her expertise and connected her with key industry stakeholders.
As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, Linda faced challenges stemming from cultural stereotypes. However, she persevered, leveraging relationships with industry players who provided support and guidance, especially from AWEIK. AWEIK has played a significant role in Linda’s professional growth, offering capacity-building programs, stakeholder forums, and sensitization initiatives that have strengthened her knowledge and confidence in the sector. She believes that the organization will continue to be a catalyst for greater female participation in the extractives industry. “I would encourage the women in the energy & extractives spaces to interact extensively with the industry players through platforms such as AWEIK, Women in Mining – Kenya Chapter and the Kenya Chamber of Mines so as to leverage on the expertise and available opportunities”

Linda acknowledges that the landscape is gradually changing, with more opportunities available for women across the energy and extractives value chain. Therefore, looking ahead, she emphasizes the need to challenge cultural norms that limit women’s involvement in the sector and advocates for financial incentives and targeted programs to encourage more women to take on roles across the industry. With the right support systems in place, she believes that women can excel and make a lasting impact in the extractives sector.
Connect with Linda today https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindakhakali/