Ibrahim Diallo

Pioneered solar energy innovation in West Africa, empowering rural communities through renewable energy access

Ibrahim Diallo is a Gambian entrepreneur and engineer whose work in renewable energy has revolutionized access to electricity in some of the most remote regions of West Africa. Launching his company Solar Hope Africa in 2021, Diallo developed modular solar solutions that are now powering over 150,000 homes across six countries. His innovative pay-as-you-go model, featured in TechCrunch, allows families to purchase solar systems using mobile payment platforms common in the region.

What makes Diallo truly distinctive is his community-centric approach - 30% of his employees are local technicians trained through his Solar Academy program. His 2023 partnership with UNDP to create Africa's first solar microgrid in Gambia's remote Kiang West region was highlighted in Forbes Africa as a model for sustainable development. Recent innovations include solar-powered irrigation systems that have doubled crop yields for 8,000 farming families.