Engr. Cany Jobe has received the Leading Woman in African Energy Award at the 30th Anniversary Edition of the Big Five Board Awards held during the Africa Energies Summit in London.
The award recognises her outstanding contribution and pioneering leadership within Africa’s energy industry, further strengthening her growing international reputation in the petroleum sector.
The Gambian energy expert emerged winner alongside a strong list of nominees that included Emeafa Hardcastle, Nisrine Al Kadi, and Olu Arowolo Verheijen.
In her acceptance speech, Engr. Jobe described the recognition as deeply meaningful, stating that it symbolises the growing influence of women in shaping Africa’s energy future through leadership, regulation, investment, policy development, and exploration activities.
She dedicated the award to women and girls across Africa, both those already occupying leadership positions and those striving for opportunities within the industry.
Engr. Cany Jobe was appointed Director General of the Petroleum Commission in January 2026 by Adama Barrow and brings more than 18 years of international experience across the oil and gas value chain.
She previously served as Director of Exploration and Production at the Gambia National Petroleum Corporation, where she played a major role in upstream strategy development, investor engagement, and petroleum data management.
Engr. Jobe also holds a Master’s degree in Engineering from University of Western Australia and a Master’s degree in International Project Management from Glasgow Caledonian University.
Her professional experience spans several international institutions across Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas, including engagements with China Petroleum Corporation, Venezuela’s PDVSA, and the ECOWAS Commission.