Jasmine Samantar (Somalia)
Jasmine Samantar (Somalia)
(Founder & CEO of Samawat Energy, Horn of Africa)
Jasmine Samantar, a visionary entrepreneur and Founder and CEO of Samawat Energy is driven by her firsthand experience witnessing the profound impact of lack of electrification in off-grid locations, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Determined to bridge the rural-urban energy divide and increase access to essential services, Jasmine embarked on a mission to revolutionize the energy landscape with Samawat Energy.
Prior to founding Samawat Energy, Jasmine served as the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Somalia for Investment Promotion, where she gained valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in the energy sector. Her dedication to making a difference in the lives of underserved communities led her to become a Policy Advisor at the Permanent Mission of Somalia to the United Nations, where she immersed herself in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and developed a deep passion for renewable energy. Jasmine's academic pursuits have also equipped her with a robust understanding of the political and economic dynamics in sub-Saharan Africa. She holds an MSc in Comparative Politics and Political Economy, with a specific focus on the region, from the prestigious London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). Additionally, she obtained a BA in Public International Law and Politics from Sciences Po Paris, further enriching her interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving. At Samawat Energy, Jasmine and her team are pioneering innovative solutions to leapfrog Africa's energy grid and bring affordable solar systems to off-grid residences, small businesses, and communities. Operating at the intersection of technology and sustainability, Samawat Energy harnesses the power of mobile payment technology and employs a pay-as-you-go model to make cost-efficient solar systems accessible to rural areas across the continent.
Emphasizing the importance of capacity building and financial inclusion, Samawat Energy provides clean energy solutions and empowers individuals and communities to thrive. By leveraging the most advanced technologies and employing cutting-edge techniques, the company delivers tailor-made solutions that meet the unique needs of its customers.
Jasmine Samantar's unwavering commitment to addressing energy poverty and promoting sustainable development has positioned her as a true catalyst for change. Through Samawat Energy, she envisions a future where every individual in Africa has access to reliable, affordable, and clean energy, unlocking a world of possibilities and transforming lives. With her visionary leadership and dedication to empowering communities, Jasmine is paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for the continent.
(Information from AFSIC Investing In Africa, Women’s Forum for the Economy and Society)