Picture yourself having to use a kerosene light to be able to see in your home after the sun goes down. This was the reality of entrepreneur George Mtemahanji, and is still that of many others living in Tanzania. In fact, it’s the reality of 70% of Tanzanians.

After studying in Italy to become a technician in the renewable energy field, Mtemahanji’s company SunSweet Solar Limited solves three major issues at once: (1) bring electricity to people who need it, (2) in areas that are mostly poor and (3) without contributing to climate change.

Mtemahanji, who was birthed with the “light of the moon” at night “in a clinic without electricity,” is the co-founder of SunSweet Solar Limited. In 2014, after 11 years of working and studying in Europe, he was able to move back and start a business venture that would change the life of his people.

George and business partner Manuel Rolando are doing this by selling solar kits and installing large-scale solar systems.

“A good business man is not the one that brings cheaper materials, but he is the one that brings good quality materials,” said Mtemahanji, “I want to take the good quality materials and also be able to sell to the poor people.”

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They’ve found that electricity doesn’t only have the ability to light homes; it also brightens the academic potential of students. Since SunSweet’s installation at Benignis Girls Secondary School in 2015, exam performance has increased 13% from 81% the year before.

In 2015, SunSweet Solar Limited was awarded the Anzisha Prize, an award that celebrates young African entrepreneurs. Did we mention that Mtemahanji is only 22-years old? He’s brightening the lives of Tanzanians and it’s truly LIT.

What do you think about SunSweet Solar Limited’s efforts? Share with us in the comments below!

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Manuel Rolando

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