Solar energy initiatives address electricity gaps in Nigeria and Senegal

Renewable energy initiatives are addressing electricity shortages and energy poverty across West Africa through localized solar technology solutions.

In Nigeria, the Solardero Foundation, led by Sayedero Enitan, is targeting the country’s significant off-grid crisis. With over 86.8 million Nigerians lacking electricity access as of 2023, the foundation has distributed roughly 6,000 solar-powered school bags to help students study after dark. The organization also provides complete solar setups and digital learning tools to remote communities, such as Ibiade and Idata, while offering vocational STEM training to teach local students solar installation and maintenance.

In Senegal, engineer Awa Niang is utilizing her company, Effa Services, to deploy tailor-made solar engineering. Her work focuses on agricultural pumping, domestic kits, and project management to promote energy autonomy in areas where the national grid is insufficient. Niang’s approach emphasizes local autonomy and the democratization of clean energy through specialized technical expertise.