Clarke Will Lead Africa Solar Industry Association
The trade group will transition its executive leadership on December 1, 2026, as it shifts its strategic direction.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in People
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The Africa Solar Industry Association will appoint Benjamin Clarke as its new Chief Executive Officer on 1 December 2026. This leadership change comes after outgoing CEO John van Zuylen concludes his seven-year tenure.
Why it matters
The transition reflects a strategic pivot for the trade body as it navigates the evolving regulatory and operational landscape for renewable energy firms across the continent.
The leadership change follows John van Zuylen's seven-year tenure as CEO. Benjamin Clarke, who previously spent five years as Head of Global Markets at SolarPower Europe, steps into the top role after serving as AFSIA's Director of Operations since February 2026.
The players
Africa Solar Industry Association
A trade organization representing solar energy developers, manufacturers, and service providers operating across the African market.
Benjamin Clarke
The incoming CEO of AFSIA who previously directed operations for the association and served as Head of Global Markets at SolarPower Europe.
John van Zuylen
The outgoing CEO of AFSIA who led the organization for seven years and will transition into a Strategic Advisor role.
SolarPower Europe
A major industry association representing the European solar sector through policy advocacy and market research.
The details
The official transition of authority will take place during the REFA 2026 forum, scheduled for 25 and 26 November 2026 in Lagos. Upon the handover, van Zuylen will pivot to a Strategic Advisor role to ensure continuity. Clarke brings experience from his prior global markets role at SolarPower Europe to oversee the association's ongoing operations and sector advocacy.
Timeline
February 2026: Benjamin Clarke joined AFSIA as Director of Operations.
25-26 November 2026: The REFA 2026 forum takes place in Lagos.
1 December 2026: Benjamin Clarke becomes the new AFSIA CEO.
Market Landscape
The leadership change is set to be formally announced at the 2026 REFA forum. This transition marks a significant shift for the association as it follows seven years of consistent executive leadership under the outgoing CEO.
Operators in the regional renewable energy sector should monitor upcoming policy shifts or changes in association priorities expected under the new CEO. Firms should prepare for potential adjustments in trade advocacy and networking opportunities following the December 1 management change.
The takeaway
Leadership transitions in industry trade groups often signal an intent to pivot advocacy focus or member services. Operators should review their association engagement strategies and prepare for new administrative contacts effective 1 December 2026.
What happens next
The leadership change will be formally announced during the REFA 2026 forum held in Lagos on 25-26 November 2026, followed by the official start of the new CEO's term on 1 December 2026.
Further reading
For more on shifts in industry oversight, visit the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Green Building Africa.
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