Uzziah Mutumbi

• Researcher in Environmental Science, Rhodes University

Dr Uzziah Mutumbi is an environmental scientist and sustainable energy researcher whose work focuses on the socio-technical dimensions of energy transitions in the Global South, with a particular emphasis on South Africa. He holds a PhD and MSc in Environmental Science from Rhodes University, where his research has centred on understanding the factors influencing solar photovoltaic (PV) adoption and electricity use behaviour among households.

His work sits at the intersection of environmental science, energy policy, and behavioural research, examining how social, economic, and institutional dynamics shape the uptake of renewable energy technologies. He uses a mixed-methods approach that combines national surveys, statistical analysis, GIS-based spatial mapping, and qualitative interviews to generate context-specific insights into energy use patterns across different socio-economic groups.

Dr Mutumbi has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, contributing to academic and policy debates on sustainable energy transitions, energy equity, and climate mitigation. His research is particularly concerned with advancing a just energy transition by identifying barriers faced by low- and middle-income households and proposing inclusive, evidence-based solutions.

Beyond academic research, he is committed to producing policy-relevant outputs, including reports and briefs aimed at informing government, municipalities, and energy stakeholders. His work seeks to bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring that renewable energy interventions are both socially responsive and practically implementable.

Currently, Dr Mutumbi is expanding his research to broader questions of energy governance, behavioural change, and the scalability of decentralised energy systems, such as solar PV and mini-grids, in urban and peri-urban contexts. His long-term goal is to contribute to the development of resilient, inclusive, and sustainable energy systems across Africa.

Publications
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• 2025–present Reseacher, Rhodes University

• Rhodes University, PhD
• 2025 Department of Environmental Science, Environmental Science

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