Khady, a student from Ndorong Serere, Senegal, now studies under the glow of an electric lamp. This change marks a significant improvement in her academic performance and quality of life. "I can now study my lessons in better conditions at night," Khady says. She attributes her progress to reliable lighting, noting that her grade in natural sciences improved from 10 to 17.
Senegal is making strides toward universal electricity access with a national rate of 84%. However, over 30% of rural communities still lack connection to the grid. In Ndorong Serere, electricity has transformed lives by creating economic opportunities and improving daily living conditions. Carpenter Djaraf returned to his village to open a workshop when electricity became available.
Cheikh Diouf recalls past struggles: "When someone passed away, residents had to travel 10 kilometers to get ice." Now, such challenges are gone thanks to energy access reshaping community life.
Senegal's push for universal electricity includes the Senegal Energy Access Scale Up Project backed by $150 million from the International Development Association (IDA). The project aims to extend power lines, electrify clinics and schools, and ensure climate-resilient infrastructure. The country seeks $2 billion in private investments for its energy strategy.
The government plans to convert heavy fuel production to gas and increase renewable energy's share in its generation mix as part of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP). This initiative partners with France, Germany, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Additionally, Senegal aims for clean cooking solutions growth at 11.3% annually.
These efforts align with "Mission 300," aiming to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030. Changes seen in Ndorong Serere reflect national ambitions for equitable and sustainable development across Senegal.