MTN South Sudan Expands Solar Charging Stations South Sudan with „Bari Loo“ Project
MTN South Sudan has successfully installed 100 solar-powered charging stations in its second phase of the Bari Loo project, named after the Bari language phrase for „light.“ This initiative aims to provide free mobile phone charging facilities in off-grid areas across the country, significantly enhancing connectivity for underserved communities.
Solar Charging Stations South Sudan Powering Connectivity in Off-Grid Areas
The „Bari Loo“ project, aptly named after the Bari word for „light,“ is designed to extend mobile phone charging access to off-grid regions throughout South Sudan. These solar-powered charging stations are strategically situated in accessible public locations, such as markets, hospitals, and police stations, ensuring that communities without electricity can remain connected.
MTN South Sudan’s CEO, Gordian Kyomukama, highlighted the significance of this endeavor: „We are committed to serving the communities in which we operate. These solar-powered mobile charging stations will help bridge the digital divide by ensuring everyone has access to mobile connectivity, regardless of their location or access to electricity.“
Each solar charging station is engineered to accommodate multiple users simultaneously, with the capacity to charge several mobile phones at once. This design allows community members to conveniently and freely charge their phones without the necessity of traveling long distances or incurring costs for charging services.
MTN South Sudan’s Community Impact Through Solar Charging Stations South Sudan
MTN South Sudan has a longstanding history of community engagement. In recent years, the company has distributed over 2,000 solar lamps to students in South Sudan and has spearheaded clean-up drives in the capital, Juba. The „Bari Loo“ project represents the latest step in MTN’s continuous efforts to enhance the lives of South Sudanese citizens by offering essential services.
In addition to the 100 stations installed during this current phase, MTN also launched 100 solar-powered charging stations in 2022 as part of the project’s initial phase. These stations have already yielded significant benefits, enabling thousands to stay connected in areas where electricity is sparse.
MTN South Sudan’s initiatives are part of a broader strategy to expand its network coverage and improve mobile connectivity across the nation. In April, the company announced plans to install 170 new telecom towers by the year’s end, with 80 to 90 of these towers already operational. This expansion will increase MTN’s total number of towers in South Sudan to over 470, further strengthening the company’s capacity to deliver reliable mobile services.
Transforming Rural Life with Solar Charging Stations South Sudan
The „Bari Loo“ project provides substantial advantages for rural communities in South Sudan, where access to electricity is exceedingly limited. According to the World Bank, as of 2020, only 6.7 percent of South Sudan’s population had access to electricity. This infrastructural gap poses challenges for individuals in remote areas to charge their mobile phones, which often serve as their primary communication tool.
The solar-powered charging stations offer a practical solution to this issue while also contributing to the overall well-being of these communities. By facilitating connectivity, MTN South Sudan is enhancing access to information, education, and economic opportunities. In many instances, mobile phones are utilized for financial transactions, accessing government services, and maintaining contact with distant family members.
The success of the „Bari Loo“ project exemplifies the potential of renewable energy solutions in addressing the challenges faced by communities in developing nations. By harnessing solar power, MTN South Sudan provides a sustainable and efficient way to enhance connectivity in regions frequently overlooked by traditional infrastructure projects.
MTN South Sudan’s deployment of 100 solar-powered charging stations under the „Bari Loo“ project marks a significant advancement in bridging the digital divide in the country. By offering free mobile charging in off-grid areas, the company is ensuring that more people have access to essential communication services. This initiative, coupled with MTN’s ongoing network expansion efforts, underscores the company’s commitment to improving the lives of South Sudanese citizens through innovative and sustainable solutions.