Lighting the Way for Children’s Health: Solar Energy in Kara, Togo

On this World Children's Day, Fondation Nexans celebrates a milestone in sustainable healthcare and its impact on childhood development. Thanks to a transformative solar energy project, the Hôpital Mère et Enfants (HME) in Kara, Togo, now provides uninterrupted healthcare services to over 10,000 children and mothers each year. This initiative ensures that every child has a brighter start in life, supported by a safer, healthier environment to grow and thrive

Lighting the Way for New Beginnings 

A child’s early years are critical for growth and development. Reliable healthcare is essential for ensuring they get the best start possible, especially in their first days and weeks of life. At HME Kara, clean, sustainable energy now powers echographs for prenatal care, and surgical equipment for life-saving procedures like cesarean sections. These improvements mean fewer delays, fewer risks, and better outcomes for children and their families. 

Moreover, reducing power outages has created a less stressful environment for healthcare workers, allowing them to focus fully on providing high-quality care. This directly benefits children by improving the conditions under which they are born, treated, and nurtured in their earliest moments of life. 

Solar Power: A Sustainable Solution for Pediatric Care 

The solar installation includes 72 panels with a capacity of 32,400 Wc and a battery system that ensures continuous energy supply, even during the night. This upgrade has reduced the hospital’s dependence on public electricity by 71% and cut energy costs by 30%. The financial savings are being reinvested in medical supplies and services, directly enhancing the care provided to children. 

Environmental sustainability is also part of the equation. By replacing polluting diesel generators, the project contributes to a healthier planet, ensuring children grow up in a cleaner, more sustainable world. While CO2 reductions will be measured over time, the hospital has already seen significant improvements in its ecological footprint. 

Empowering Healthcare, Inspiring Hope 

This project is a testament to the power of partnerships and a shared vision for brighter childhoods. Co-financed by Fondation Nexans and SOS Villages d’Enfants, with technical support from Africaine Des Travaux et Fournitures (ADTF) and E.P. Engineering SARL, the initiative has increased the hospital’s energy autonomy to 56%. Looking ahead, the goal is to reach 70% by 2030, with plans to expand solar power to other hospital units, further enhancing its ability to serve the community. 

This collaboration goes beyond just providing electricity. It empowers healthcare providers to deliver consistent, high-quality care, laying the foundation for healthy childhoods. From prenatal care to emergency treatments, this initiative ensures children receive the attention they need to grow into healthy, thriving adults. 

A Bright Future for Every Child 

On World Children's Day, we are reminded that every child deserves access to the best possible start in life. The solar energy project at HME Kara embodies this belief, creating a ripple effect that touches every aspect of childhood development—from safe births to early medical interventions. 

Fondation Nexans is proud to be part of this journey, lighting the way for children and their families to enjoy brighter, healthier futures. Together, let’s continue to build a world where no child is left in the dark.