By Ojugbele Omotunde
350Africa.org, in collaboration with groups from the AfrikaVuka network, is celebrating community renewable energy heroes during Africa Week.
This event, known as AfrikaVuka Week, honors individuals and organizations advocating for renewable energy and implementing community-centered sustainable energy projects across the continent.
Public nominations were solicited to identify key contributors to affordable, equitable, and sustainable energy access in Africa.
A committee rigorously screened the nominees, shortlisting outstanding candidates from 10 countries across seven categories, including individuals, institutions, grassroots community groups, and innovation hubs.
Landry Ninteretse, Regional Director of 350Africa.org, praised the growing renewable energy movement in Africa, highlighting its shift away from fossil fuels towards decentralized solutions.
He emphasized that with prioritized funding and support from governments and financial institutions, Africa could significantly contribute to the global objective of tripling renewable energy capacity.
Ninteretse stressed that addressing the climate crisis requires substantial investment in renewable energy and supportive regulatory frameworks.
Honorees:
Nigeria: The Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP) was recognized for equipping communities with solar technology training and kits, benefiting Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Benue and Borno states, as well as the Owukpa community.
Related Posts
Benin: Cercle des Grands Pionniers (CGP) offers technical assistance for installing and troubleshooting decentralized and affordable renewable energy systems.
Senegal: Enda Energie has implemented initiatives such as Progres Lait, B Energy, and Better Stoves to provide sustainable energy solutions to communities.
Ghana: 350GROC launched the Renewable Energy for Communities (RE4C) project, transitioning from anti-coal campaigns to promoting a green revolution. Their efforts include initiatives like Women in Renewable Energy and Renewable Energy for Schools.
Cameroon: Dr. Richard Munang leads significant renewable energy projects across Africa through Innovative Volunteerism and the EBAFOSA framework, involving over 3 million youths in more than 40 countries.
Uganda: Julius Mujuni, also known as Our Solar Kabaka, has spearheaded off-grid renewable energy projects, resulting in the establishment of over 196 businesses.
Benin: Salako Mahutin Antoine has revitalized isolated areas by providing solar kits and enhancing energy availability nationwide.
South Africa:
– Lindy Nzwana empowers her community through the Tshwaranang Community Project, which showcases community-owned sustainable technology.
– Mphatheleni Makaulule uses her solar PV system to power her town, significantly benefiting children and encouraging local officials to invest in renewable energy.
– Mamosweu Tsoab established the Village Kitchen, a community-owned renewable energy center in Waterdal, Vaal, offering sustainable cooking solutions through the Serapeng sa Ditlhare NPC grassroots organization.
This recognition of community renewable energy heroes highlights the significant strides being made across Africa towards sustainable energy and serves as an inspiration for further efforts in the field.
