How a village in Senegal is using solar energy to bring itself into the modern age | DW Documentary

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In a remote village in Senegal, a woman is using solar energy to bring progress. Against her husband's wishes, she trains to become a solar technician. In doing so, she initiates a shift in patriarchal traditions.

In the former Fulbe kingdom of "Fouta Toro” on the border between Senegal and Mauritania, there are villages so remote that the nearest town is several hours away by car. There is no connection to the electricity grid here. Néné lives in one of these villages. At the market, she heard about an NGO that gives women the opportunity to learn about solar energy. Néné decides to visit the NGO: Her village needs electricity.

Before Néné, no woman had ever left her village, attended school or learned anything other than how to feed animals, cultivate fields, look after children and prepare food. Néné's husband doesn't want to let her go, but she resists his wishes. She decides to train as a solar technician.

Néné is not alone - other women will be taking part in the training alongside her. As they board the minibus bound for the city, their first step into a new life begins. At the training center, they experience running water and electricity for the first time. The sea and the hustle and bustle of the big city are also new to them.

Four months later, the women return to the village, bringing with them much-desired know-how. They explain how the houses can be supplied with solar energy. Little by little, solar power is finding its way into people's everyday lives. Through their actions and their training, the women subtly raise questions about the meaning of modernity -- and the position of women in society.

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