The Regional Off-Grid Electricity Access Project (ROGEAP), in collaboration with Ecobank Nigeria, has launched a comprehensive three-day Entrepreneurship Business Training Workshop tailored to bolster the capabilities of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) operating within the burgeoning solar energy sector in Nigeria. This initiative, scheduled to take place from March 10th to 12th in Abuja, aims to equip 50 selected SMEs with a robust toolkit encompassing technical, financial, and business management skills essential for thriving in the dynamic renewable energy landscape. ROGEAP, a collaborative effort funded by the World Bank, the Clean Technology Fund, and the Directorate General for International Cooperation of the Netherlands, is implemented by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) through a dedicated project fund manager. The project underscores a commitment to fostering sustainable development and promoting access to clean energy solutions across the region.
The workshop represents a strategic investment in the future of sustainable energy in Nigeria. It offers participating SMEs a unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies of the off-grid solar value chain, gaining valuable insights into quality assurance, environmental and social risk management, and effective business model development. Furthermore, the program opens doors to vital financial resources, including ROGEAP grants and accessible credit lines, designed to catalyze business expansion and facilitate market penetration. This comprehensive approach ensures participants receive well-rounded support, covering both the technical and financial aspects of operating a successful solar energy business.
Salamatu Baba Tunzwang, the Energy Sector Financing (ESF) Team Lead at ROGEAP, emphasized the transformative potential of the workshop, positioning it as a crucial catalyst for advancing sustainable energy access and stimulating economic growth in Nigeria. By empowering SMEs with the necessary tools and knowledge, the program aims to create a ripple effect, fostering economic development while simultaneously expanding access to clean energy solutions for a wider population. This dual focus on economic advancement and environmental sustainability highlights the holistic nature of the initiative.
Ecobank Nigeria, a key partner in this endeavor, echoed the sentiment, expressing enthusiasm for their involvement in this collaborative venture. Tunde Dawodu, Divisional Head for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Northern region at Ecobank Nigeria, underlined the workshop’s alignment with the bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting SME growth. He emphasized the invaluable nature of the training for Ecobank’s SME customers engaged in solar installations and sales, highlighting its complementary role to the bank’s existing ELLEVATE Programme and Single Market Trade Hub. These programs provide crucial support to SMEs, offering access to tailored financial products, cutting-edge digital tools, and strategic guidance designed to facilitate expansion into broader markets, further amplifying the impact of the workshop.
The ELLEVATE Programme, specifically designed to empower women-owned and women-led businesses, further underscores Ecobank’s dedication to inclusive growth. By providing targeted support to this demographic, the program aims to unlock the potential of women entrepreneurs in the solar energy sector, contributing to both economic empowerment and gender equality. The Single Market Trade Hub, on the other hand, focuses on facilitating regional trade within Africa, enabling SMEs to access larger markets and capitalize on cross-border opportunities. This comprehensive support system, combined with the specialized training offered by the ROGEAP workshop, creates a fertile ground for SME success in the renewable energy sector.
ROGEAP’s broader mission extends beyond Nigeria, encompassing a wider regional focus on enhancing sustainable energy access across twelve ECOWAS member countries and an additional seven African nations. By developing a robust regional market for off-grid solar products and providing comprehensive support to value chain stakeholders, the project aims to drive a significant increase in clean energy adoption across the continent. This ambitious undertaking demonstrates a commitment to addressing the energy needs of a diverse range of communities, fostering sustainable development and improving quality of life through access to reliable and environmentally friendly energy sources. The collaborative approach, involving international organizations, financial institutions, and local businesses, underscores the importance of partnership in achieving large-scale impact in the renewable energy sector.
