We’re thrilled to share some highlights from 2023, marking a year of growth and impact for Solar Sister.
Highlights this Year:
- Expansion: In 2023, we welcomed an impressive 1,794 new entrepreneurs across Nigeria, Tanzania, and Kenya, expanding our network more than ever.
- Impressive Sales Achievements: Our dedicated Solar Sister Entrepreneurs distributed 170,000 clean energy products, generating $1.5 million in revenue—a testament to their hard work and dedication.
- Training Milestone: We reached a significant milestone by training 10,000 entrepreneurs by October 2023.
News from our entrepreneurs
- 33% of our entrepreneurs have started at least one new business since joining Solar Sister.
- 84% of entrepreneurs reported being financially better off than they were 12 months ago
- 3/4 of entrepreneurs noticed a significant increase in demand for clean energy in their communities compared to 2022.
- 67% of women entrepreneurs have taken on more responsibilities at home and in their communities this year.
Addressing Barriers To Success
One of Solar Sister’s initiatives this year was to address barriers to access. The Solar Sister model is implemented in regions experiencing conflict, areas affected by natural disasters, and refugee camps. Solar Sister has successfully reached internally displaced populations, women with disabilities, and other groups experiencing additional barriers to entrepreneurship. We accomplished this by tailored programming such as additional start-up capital support, digital work tool provision, transportation support, and unique mentorship support.
Awards:
Solar Sister won several awards: the African Solar Industry Association (AFSIA) bestowed upon Solar Sister the coveted “SHS Company of the Year Award”* at the grand 2023 AFSIA Solar Awards Ceremony. This award recognizes and celebrates exceptional talent and achievements in the African solar market.
In November, Solar Sister proudly received the “Renewable Transformation Challenge” award from Elsevier and the International Solar Energy Society (ISES) for their submission titled “Empowering Women to Eradicate Energy Poverty.” This accolade celebrates remarkable efforts in advancing renewable energy and universal energy access.
Closing the year on a high note, Solar Sister Nigeria clinched two remarkable awards in December—the “Community Impact Award” and the “Clean Energy Financing Award” from the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN).
Featured:
We were thrilled to have Solar Sister Entrepreneur Loveness Sabaya from Tanzania featured in a video at 2023 COP28.
