Cape Town, South Africa – September 28, 2026 -- Globeleq has appointed Edouard Wenseleers as Chief Development Officer, effective 10 August 2026, placing him on the Executive Committee to lead business development across the continent.
Wenseleers succeeds John Smelcer after eight years at Globeleq
Wenseleers takes over from John Smelcer, who is stepping away from the business to prioritize family commitments after a tenure leading Globeleq's development activities. Wenseleers joined Globeleq in 2018 and most recently served as Managing Director, Business Development and Head of East Africa, a role in which he also held overall responsibility for the company's operations and asset management in Kenya.
Executive brings 15 years of African power-sector deal-making
During his time at Globeleq, Wenseleers led the financial close and construction of the 52 MWp Malindi Solar project and the financial close of the 35 MW Menengai geothermal project in Kenya. He also directed the acquisition of Norfund's 51% stake in Lunsemfwa Hydro Power Company and oversaw strategic acquisitions and growth opportunities across East Africa and Zambia. Before Globeleq, he spent ten years at ENGIE, working on major power projects in Morocco before setting up and leading the company's East Africa presence from Nairobi.
Globeleq's portfolio spans 1,660 MW in operation, 665 MW under construction
Globeleq currently generates 1,660 MW across 17 power plants in seven countries, with 665 MW under construction and more than 2,000 MW in development. The company is owned by British International Investment and Norfund, the UK and Norwegian development finance institutions.
Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Hoffman said Wenseleers has consistently demonstrated the ability to originate, develop and deliver complex projects in some of Africa's most dynamic markets. Wenseleers said he aims to convert the company's pipeline into operating assets that contribute to economic growth and energy security across the continent.