By: Binta Jaiteh
Momodou Dampha, Chairperson of (NAWEC) Gender committee and Human Resource Administrative senior manager vowed to promote an inclusive and sustainable Electricity sector.
The development is NAWEC in collaboration with Mbolo Association under a project which is funded by the World Bank through Gambia Electricity Restoration Information Modernization Project (GERMP).
He made this remark during a ceremony held at the Tujereng Fandema Association complex, where the project is currently training thirty (30) girls in Solar panels installation and Renewable Energy at a cost of D4 million dalasi.
According to Dampha, the project will increase the pipeline of trained female technicians in the renewable energy and electricity sector and also facilitate the identification of work opportunities to increase the female workforce
He noted that to improve women’s employability in the sector, particularly in the renewable energy sub-sector and as electricians in newly electrified localities, NAWEC embarked on collaboration with Mbollo Association/Fandema to select and train women from across the Gambia in renewable energy, electricity and other life-skills related to strong performance in a professional work environment.
Malang Sambou, Co-founder of Mbolo Association said the project is to train young girls to become energy installers which is very key and a step in the right direction.
Sambou stated that building the skills of girls in renewable energy and solar installation is important in addressing the global crises when it comes to climate change.
“Challenges and barriers will occur during the journey but with professionalism and commitment, our goals will be achieved. NAWEC is proud to be associated with such a life-changing program of empowering women in the energy sector,” Sambou told participants.
Madeline Sambou, Secretary of the NAWEC Gender Committee, advised the girls to take the training seriously and make a change because renewable energy and solar installation are the order of the day and it should not always be men but women to take the lead as well.
