How off grid solar has helped to create a generation of entrepreneurs in Kenya

How off grid solar has helped to create a generation of entrepreneurs in Kenya

Recently two of Europe’s leading online impact investing platforms came together to launch Energise Africa, an initiative that enables people to invest in pioneering business that install life-changing solar systems in Sub-Saharan Africa – bringing affordable clean energy to families whilst also aiming to generate a financial return for investors.*

Several businesses that have recently listed on the platform such as SunTransfer and Sollatek provide great examples of how the entrepreneurial spirit has helped to create thriving solar businesses in Kenya.

Take SunTransfer for example: its CEO and founder Kirubi Gathu is a self-made solar energy entrepreneur, who over the past 15 years has been creating and implementing off-grid solar solutions in rural Kenya. In 2009 Kirubi founded SunTransfer, a company which has worked as a pioneer in the Kenyan solar market, establishing a network of solar centres to provide rural families with the technical support and affordable credit needed to be able to access solar energy.

In contrast Solltek Kenya has sold more than 650,000 lanterns and home solar systems over the last 7 years providing around 3.8 million people with access to clean energy. Sollatek’s growth and success can be attributed to their ongoing commitment to training and recruiting local entrepreneurs from areas with high unemployment rates and low levels of education. At the end of their recent programme 60 solar entrepreneurs were trained (50% of whom were women) who went on to join the company as sales agents or direct employees.

To find out more about Energise Africa and the pioneering solar businesses that are being provided with vital impact investment from retail investors visit https://www.lendahand.co.uk/investments

*Please be aware your capital is at risk and returns aren’t guaranteed. These are fixed-term bonds, and funds cannot be withdrawn until the end of the term. To find out more and to read our full risk warning, visit https://www.lendahand.co.uk/risk