Sharon Daka: A Trailblazer in Sustainable Energy

In a world rapidly transitioning to sustainable solutions, few stories are as inspiring as that of Sharon Daka, the founder and director of Kawaida Energy in Ndola, Zambia. As we celebrate women entrepreneurs on this Women’s Day, Sharon’s journey illustrates the profound impact of recognizing gaps in energy accessibility and responding with actionable change. From her early experiences in Zambia, she faced firsthand challenges stemming from the unreliability of electricity, inspiring her venture into affordable energy solutions.

Transforming Challenges Into Opportunities

During her entrepreneurial journey, Sharon confronted significant hurdles—including frequent load shedding—forcing her to innovate and differentiate her offerings in a crowded energy market. Her pivotal moment came when she recognized the urgent demand for reliable energy solutions, prompting her to expand Kawaida Energy’s services to include water purification. This integration underscores the interconnection between sustainable energy and essential services that improve the quality of life.

Advocating for Women and Youth Empowerment in Energy

Sharon is not just an advocate for clean energy but also a champion for women and youth in Zambia. “Sustainability isn’t just about clean energy—it’s also about empowering communities,” she asserts. By involving women and youth in cooperatives, she aims to build a local workforce skilled in the energy sector. This focus on inclusivity not only addresses pressing energy challenges but catalyzes economic growth and enhances social impact, reinforcing the essence of impact investment.

The Importance of Networking for Female Entrepreneurs

With advice that resonates with many aspiring entrepreneurs, Sharon highlights the power of networking. She emphasizes participating in conferences and industry events, stating, “Connecting with potential investors and partners is crucial because funding doesn’t just come from having a great idea—it comes from building relationships.” This insight serves as a reminder for many women to forge connections that can enhance their business viability.

From Startup Success to Recognized Brand

Securing SIMA’s investment marked a turning point for Kawaida Energy. Before this support, the challenges of limited revenue and a small customer base threatened their operation. However, the backing not only increased visibility but allowed Kawaida Energy to expand its market reach significantly. One of Sharon's proudest achievements is the transformation of her startup into a brand that resonates trust and is actively making a real difference in people’s lives.

In conclusion, Sharon Daka’s journey underscores the potential of purpose-driven entrepreneurship to instigate change. As we support women who dare to innovate and uplift their communities, let us reflect on the importance of sustainable financial solutions such as green bonds and blended finance that enable more trailblazers like Sharon. Recognizing the impact of investments in renewable energy is crucial as we look towards a future that not only emphasizes eco-friendliness but also equity and empowerment.