In Kidal, Mali, 1,500 homes have been provided solar kits, as part of a solar energy project funded by UN’s mission to Mali (MINUSMA). The implementation of this project for the electrification of rural areas was carried out by NGO AFORD (Association for Training, Research and Development).

“Families that received the kits are extremely happy, not only because they were given light but also they helped them in various ways, especially families with kids. The kits help these kids study at night. Women can also keep working during dark hours,” said Assikaday Ag Wayergane, chief of one of the Kidal’s communities, which is at the center of conflicts opposing Touareg rebels and government forces.

Most part of the power used in Mali is currently imported, from Senegal. The government has recently said that it plans to build two solar plants.

Gwladys Johnson