Mr. Mzwandile Thwala is an Energy Efficiency Expert at the United Nations Environment Programme’s United for Efficiency (UNEP-U4E) initiative, where he supports various projects across Africa. With more than a decade of experience in the formulation and implementation of energy policies, including energy efficiency, renewable energy, rural electrification and energy planning, Thwala has contributed significantly to the development and enforcement of energy legislation and standards for household appliances and industrial equipment. His current work at UNEP-U4E involves promoting the regional harmonization of Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for cooling appliances within the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC). In addition, he has been involved in Green Climate Fund (GCF) Readiness projects in Malawi, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe and most recently in The Gambia. Thwala holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, a Postgraduate Diploma in Energy Leadership, and is currently pursuing a Master of Management in Energy Leadership at the University of the Witwatersrand. Mr. Thwala draws much of his inspiration from long-distance running, a discipline that fosters resilience, focus, and endurance, qualities he integrates into his professional pursuits.