Umwuga n’akazi

Project Summary

Umwuga n'Akazi is a growth-stage social enterprise manufacturing power banks to provide reliable portable power solutions in regions affected by frequent power outages.
Project Location: Burundi
Project Region: Africa
Focus Area: Energy Access
Project Phase: Series A Finance

Project Description

Umwuga n’Akazi is a growth-stage social enterprise manufacturing power banks to provide reliable portable power solutions in regions affected by frequent power outages. The project addresses the critical need for device charging in communities where electricity access is inconsistent, enabling households, students, and small businesses to stay connected and productive.

Currently in operation for 1–3 years with a team of 11–20 members, the project serves local communities and generates revenue through user charges, direct sales, donations, prizes, and grants.

Expenses: Purchase of cases, batteries, and conductive wire.
Challenges: Insufficient equipment limits production capacity and scalability.
Vision: To expand from domestic supply to international markets, positioning Umwuga n’Akazi as a recognized brand in portable energy solutions.

Inspired by firsthand observation of frequent power outages across the province, the founder launched this initiative to provide affordable, locally manufactured power banks that reduce dependence on unreliable grid electricity. The project not only meets an urgent community need but also creates employment opportunities for local youth and contributes to building technical skills in electronics assembly and manufacturing. Long-term plans include scaling production capacity through investment in better equipment, expanding product lines to include larger energy storage solutions, and establishing partnerships with schools, small businesses, and humanitarian organizations to reach more underserved communities. By combining local manufacturing with a customer-centered approach, Umwuga n’Akazi aims to become a sustainable enterprise that empowers communities through reliable, portable energy access.

Coordinators: Hadiza Abdulmumini, Cataleya Han

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