Econet Wireless Burundi has launched a USD 2.5 million solar energy project as the first phase of a wider USD 6.5 million investment aimed at transitioning its telecommunications network to renewable energy.
The project was officially launched during a groundbreaking ceremony in Bujumbura on 5 November 2026. The initial rollout will cover approximately one-third of the company’s network sites, with completion expected by July 2027. The first sites are scheduled to become operational in February 2027, while the company aims to transition its entire network to green energy by December 2028.
The first phase will deliver 626.56 kWp of installed solar capacity, supported by 2,073.6 kWh of battery storage. Once operational, the infrastructure is expected to generate up to 1.07 GWh of renewable electricity annually, reduce diesel consumption by approximately 300,000 litres and prevent nearly 800 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
The project brings together Econet Wireless, SOLIO Group, GEFI Solutions SEZ, CRDB Bank, Access Bank and SOCABU. GEFI Solutions SEZ arranged the project financing, while Growth Energy is responsible for engineering, procurement and construction in coordination with Clear Blue Technologies.
CRDB Bank provided a guarantee that helped secure financing and mobilise investment for the project in Burundi.
Econet Wireless Burundi CEO Nepias Njaravaza said the investment builds on the company’s two-decade presence in the country’s telecommunications sector and its commitment to developing infrastructure and services that support connectivity.
The wider USD 6.5 million partnership is expected to support the transition of Econet Wireless Burundi’s network infrastructure to renewable energy, reducing reliance on diesel-powered sites and improving the sustainability of its operations.
