A solar energy project in West Africa is empowering rural African women to transform their communities, overcoming deep cultural resistances.
In villages without electricity, such as Vitell and Ben-Dutubi, they learn to install solar panels, charge devices, and bring light to their homes, challenging patriarchal norms that initially hindered their participation.
Initial resistance in communities with African women
The initiative, specifically aimed at uneducated African women, faced skepticism. Community leaders argued that “no Fulani woman would leave her family” to attend a four-and-a-half-month training.
During a meeting, men insisted that women “don’t want to go,” while the women responded that “men make the decisions.” The tension reflected entrenched traditions where the female role is limited to the domestic sphere.
Breaking barriers: Nené’s journey
Nené, 24 years old and a resident of Vitell, became a symbol of change. She decided to leave secretly: “If la san [her husband] had known, he would have stormed the bus to stop me,” she recounted.
Along with her, Jaguasa (from Ben-Dutubi) and Aisata Amadú Diallo, married at 14 with no children, joined the program. “I fight for my ideals,” Nené declared. “We need light to call for ambulances or report cattle thefts.”
Technical training and empowerment
The training, based in Dakar, combined theory and practice:
Community transformation and new challenges
- Monday to Thursday: Assembly of solar systems.
- Friday and Saturday: Use of cell phones and computers.
The participants received kits with panels, lamps, and manuals. “Red to red, black to black: even women without training can do it,” explained an instructor. Aisata highlighted the impact: “Before, we climbed trees to get a signal; now we will light up our homes.”
After returning with diplomas and equipment, the women installed solar systems powering lamps and chargers.
“We owe having electricity to them,” admitted a villager. However, inequalities persist. Nené observed: “Women work harder than men. They build huts, fetch water and firewood.” Others, like a young mother, yearn for education: “I only know how to do household chores. I want to study.”
Light reveals shadow of African women
The project propelled advancements but revealed greater challenges: girls married at 12, lack of schools, and male resistance. “I haven’t found a second wife for la san yet,” joked a neighbor, reflecting tensions.
While Nené lights up courtyards and protects livestock from predators, she demands: “We need schools for children and internet.” Her fight continues: “If we have a profession and money, we will solve our problems.”
The sun shines in the villages, but the path to equality remains obscured by traditions. These African women, armed with tools and diplomas, are the spark of a change that is just beginning.
