Benjamin Clarke Will Lead Africa Solar Association
The Africa Solar Industry Association has named Benjamin Clarke as its incoming Chief Executive Officer starting this December.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in People
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Benjamin Clarke will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer at the Africa Solar Industry Association on 1 December 2026. This leadership transition follows the seven-year tenure of outgoing CEO John van Zuylen.
Why it matters
The change in leadership marks a transition as John van Zuylen steps aside from his long-standing role. Clarke is set to bring his prior experience in global markets to the association to guide its strategic direction.
Benjamin Clarke brings five years of experience from his previous role as Head of Global Markets at SolarPower Europe. John van Zuylen concludes a seven-year term as the association's chief executive.
The players
Benjamin Clarke
He is the incoming Chief Executive Officer of the Africa Solar Industry Association who previously served as Head of Global Markets at SolarPower Europe.
John van Zuylen
He is the outgoing Chief Executive Officer of the Africa Solar Industry Association who will transition into the role of Strategic Advisor.
Africa Solar Industry Association
This is a regional trade body dedicated to the advancement and support of the solar power sector across Africa.
The details
Benjamin Clarke currently serves as the Director of Operations for the association, a position he has held since February 2026. The change in leadership will be formally presented to the industry during the REFA 2026 forum in Lagos.
Timeline
Benjamin Clarke joined AFSIA as Director of Operations in February 2026.
The REFA 2026 forum will take place in Lagos on 25 and 26 November 2026.
Benjamin Clarke will assume the role of CEO on 1 December 2026.
Market Landscape
The transition within the Africa Solar Industry Association reflects a broader effort to formalize leadership structures as renewable energy demand grows across the continent. This shift aligns the organization with regional industrial trends observed at major forums like REFA.
The change in management may influence how the Africa Solar Industry Association interacts with global market partners and stakeholders. Members and industry professionals can expect to see the new leadership agenda outlined during the upcoming forum in Lagos.
The takeaway
The appointment of a new CEO highlights the ongoing maturation of solar advocacy groups as they look to integrate global market strategies. Industry observers should monitor the upcoming REFA 2026 forum for updates on the association's long-term objectives.
Further reading
For more on shifts in the industry, visit People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Green Building Africa.
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