In northwestern Zambia, 26-year-old Green has found a steady income thanks to a new solar project that has transformed his life. Living in Jifumpa Village near the Ruida Mine, Green, who has been unable to speak since birth and struggled to find work, was hired by the Chinese firm Sany Microgrid in October 2024. His role involves clearing land and hauling materials for a solar-plus-storage facility aimed at supplying reliable power to the mine.
The project combines solar panels, battery storage, and diesel generators, which not only provide consistent electricity but also reduce reliance on fossil fuels. “Beyond building power facilities, energy projects in many remote parts of Africa can also create opportunities for local disadvantaged groups to improve their lives through work,” said Guo Ruiguang, chairman of Sany Microgrid.
Sany Microgrid has been expanding its operations across Africa, with numerous installations in Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia. A report from United Nations agencies in June 2026 indicated that around 655 million people globally still lack access to electricity, over 560 million of whom are in sub-Saharan Africa. For communities receiving their initial reliable electricity supply, these green energy initiatives represent significant progress.
Chen Jiequn, chairman of Leiming Technology, shared an uplifting story from rural West Africa, where his company installed a solar system in a family’s home. The sight of children amazed by electric light in their thatched hut was a poignant reminder of the project’s impact. Since 2016, with support from the World Bank and the UN Development Program, Leiming Technology has implemented off-grid solar schemes that have brought power to approximately 13 million people across Africa.
Beyond providing equipment, China’s cooperation with African nations has extended to workforce training. In Nigeria’s Bayelsa State, Hunan Red Solar New Energy Science and Technology Co Ltd has adapted its products to handle local conditions while training staff to maintain and operate solar systems. This effort aligns with the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Beijing Action Plan (2025-27), which promotes renewable energy collaboration and skills training.
Projects facilitated by Chinese companies are making significant strides, such as the solar demonstration village project by China Geo-Engineering Corporation in Mali, which has installed over 1,000 solar facilities and served more than 10,000 residents. Additionally, solar power at Kenya’s Kakuma refugee camp supports a small cinema broadcasting football matches.
“China-Africa green energy cooperation has not only supported Africa’s industrialization but also addressed the everyday needs of ordinary people,” said Xiao Hao, executive dean of the Institute of African Studies at Hunan University.
