Showcasing local experience, building partnerships and exploring opportunities to expand access to clean and reliable energy.
Access to reliable electricity remains a significant challenge for many underserved communities, particularly in areas beyond the reach of the national electricity grid.
For healthcare facilities, schools and households, limited access to electricity affects essential services, productivity and opportunities for development.
Recognising the importance of addressing this challenge, ELICO Foundation participated in the Global Off-Grid Solar Forum & Expo (GOGSFE 2026), held in Kigali, Rwanda.
The forum brought together stakeholders from across the off-grid solar sector to exchange experiences, showcase innovative technologies and explore opportunities to accelerate access to clean, reliable and sustainable energy.
Representing ELICO Foundation at the forum was Sisty Basil, Executive Director, who joined other sector stakeholders in discussions and exchanges around the future of off-grid renewable energy.
Taking experience from local communities to the global conversation
ELICO Foundation’s participation came with practical experience in implementing renewable energy solutions in underserved communities across Tanzania.
Over the years, ELICO has supported the electrification of more than 45 health facilities in Kigoma and Dodoma regions, using off-grid solar solutions to improve access to reliable electricity for essential healthcare services.
Beyond healthcare electrification, ELICO has also established two mini-grids in Leganga and Ngurtoto villages in Dodoma Region, bringing electricity closer to communities with limited access to reliable power.
These initiatives demonstrate how decentralised renewable energy solutions can help address electricity access challenges while supporting essential services and community development.
ELICO is also extending its work through the SWARM-E project in Kwale Island, where it serves as the implementing partner, working alongside OffGridBox as a technology partner.
The project reflects continued efforts to explore innovative approaches to expanding sustainable energy access in underserved communities.
Building partnerships and exploring new possibilities
The event also provided an opportunity for ELICO to engage with partners, including OffGridBox, whose technology is being showcased at the forum. Their collaboration under the SWARM-E project demonstrates the importance of partnerships in bringing together technical expertise and local implementation experience to advance energy access.
Participation in GOGSFE 2026 offered an opportunity to connect ELICO’s work at community level with broader conversations on innovation, technology, partnerships and the financing needed to scale renewable energy solutions.
Continuing the commitment to energy access
For ELICO Foundation, expanding energy access goes beyond installing solar systems. It is about ensuring that communities and essential service providers can access reliable energy that supports their needs and contributes to sustainable development.
