By Haddy Touray
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has officially handed over a 120-kilowatt peak (kWp) solar mini-grid facility in Sare Demba Toro to the Government of The Gambia, strengthening efforts to expand access to clean and reliable energy in rural communities.
Constructed under UNDP’s Climate Promise initiative, the facility serves the communities of Sare Demba Toro, Sare Yerorie and Jamu Mballow. The project is aimed at extending sustainable energy access to remote communities and supporting The Gambia’s transition to renewable energy.
According to project officials, the mini-grid currently supplies electricity to 375 households, benefiting an estimated 5,000 people. More than 75 small and medium-sized enterprises are also connected to the facility, supporting activities such as welding, tailoring, cold storage, milling and agro-processing.
The project was implemented through collaboration between UNDP, the Ministry of Petroleum, Energy and Mines, the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC), local authorities and beneficiary communities.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Minister of Petroleum, Energy and Mines Nani Juwara described the project as an important step towards achieving universal access to electricity in The Gambia.
“The Green Mini-Grid Project is a significant milestone in our pursuit of universal electricity access. Through our partnership with UNDP, we are ensuring that rural communities are not left behind and that access to clean, reliable energy becomes a driver of sustainable development and economic opportunity,” Juwara said.
UNDP Resident Representative Mandisa Mashologu said the facility would contribute to socio-economic development in the beneficiary communities.
“This solar mini-grid represents far more than a technical solution. It represents opportunity, progress and transformation. Access to reliable electricity is helping unlock new opportunities in education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and local economic development,” she said.
Officials said the facility is already contributing to improved livelihoods by enabling businesses to expand operations, supporting agricultural value addition and creating employment opportunities, particularly for women and young people.
The project also supports national efforts to increase the share of renewable energy in the country’s energy mix, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and strengthen resilience to climate change.
The handover comes as The Gambia accelerates implementation of its renewable energy agenda and seeks to achieve universal energy access. UNDP reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the country’s transition to a green, inclusive and resilient economy.
The agency also highlighted its ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Petroleum, Energy and Mines on other renewable energy projects, including a solar mini-grid currently under development in Jinack.
The Sare Demba Toro solar mini-grid is expected to enhance economic opportunities and improve living standards in the beneficiary communities while contributing to national development goals.
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