What is WeLight?
WeLight is a trailblazer in rural electrification across Africa. Since its founding in 2018, this innovative company has been deploying and operating solar mini-grids in Madagascar and Mali, with plans to expand further. Certified as a B Corp, WeLight is deeply committed to energy inclusion, bringing sustainable electricity to communities that have long been off the grid. It’s not just about power—it’s about powering change.
Main Benefits of WeLight’s Work
WeLight’s impact is impressive and growing. Here are some key figures that tell the story:
- Presence in 3 countries
- 180 operational sites
- 30,000 connections providing electricity
- 190,000 direct beneficiaries enjoying improved quality of life
- 900 tons of CO2 emissions avoided annually
- 5,200 businesses and small industries connected to reliable power
- 1,500 women entrepreneurs supported, empowering local economies
The Story Behind WeLight
Back in 2018, when 70% of Madagascar’s population was without electricity, three major players—Axian, Sagemcom, and Norfund—joined forces to try something new. Axian brought deep market knowledge, Sagemcom contributed its mini-grid expertise, and Norfund added a long-term vision for energy access. The result? A successful pilot that electrified 9,000 households in just three years, sparking new businesses, improving education, boosting agricultural processing, and enhancing health services. This success laid the foundation for WeLight’s rapid growth.
Expanding Horizons: From Madagascar to Mali and Beyond
In 2022, WeLight hit a major milestone by securing €20 million from BNI and European development banks to build 120 new sites in Madagascar, making it the country’s leading mini-grid operator. But the journey didn’t stop there. Recognizing the massive energy gap in sub-Saharan Africa—where 570 million people still lack electricity—WeLight launched operations in Mali the same year and quickly became a top energy provider. Looking ahead, Nigeria, Africa’s fastest-growing market, is next on the list, with plans to deploy solar mini-grids starting in 2024. Ambitious? Absolutely. But that’s the kind of bold vision driving WeLight forward.
Founding Partners: A Powerful Collaboration
WeLight’s strength comes from its founding partners—Axian, Sagemcom, and Norfund—each bringing unique expertise and passion to the table. Axian’s diverse portfolio spans real estate to innovation, while Sagemcom specializes in network equipment tailored for Sub-Saharan Africa. Norfund, Norway’s sovereign development bank, supports sustainable businesses in developing countries, adding financial muscle and strategic insight. Together, they’ve turned a shared dream of accessible, sustainable electricity into a thriving reality across the continent.
WeLight’s Positive Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 5: Gender Equality (supporting women entrepreneurs)
- SDG 13: Climate Action (reducing CO2 emissions)
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 1: No Poverty (improving livelihoods through energy access)
Mission, Commitment, and Sustainable Practices
At its core, WeLight combines on-the-ground expertise with cutting-edge technology, blending mini-grids and renewable energy to bring power to rural villages. The company is dedicated to fostering sustainable socio-economic growth, promoting eco-friendly practices, and unlocking the potential of Africa’s rural communities. Notably, WeLight is the first company in Madagascar to earn B Corp certification, a prestigious international label recognizing outstanding environmental and social performance. This achievement underscores WeLight’s commitment to making a meaningful, positive impact on its entire ecosystem—because for them, it’s not just business; it’s a mission.
