Bringing African Innovation to the United Nations
We had the distinct honor of meeting with Mrs. Amina J. Mohammed, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, at the UN office in Abuja. This visit marked a pivotal moment in our journey to bring sustainable energy solutions to the forefront of global development efforts.
During our meeting, we presented the IRESS Solar Backpack—a groundbreaking innovation designed to transform energy access in unserved and underserved communities. This portable, solar-powered solution is more than just a backpack; it is a lifeline for those in need of reliable and clean energy. Equipped with a robust lithium-phosphate battery, a foldable hard-shell solar panel, and an inverter system, the IRESS Solar Backpack is engineered to meet the energy demands of critical services such as education, healthcare, communication, small businesses, and more.
Our innovative solution aligns with several of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). By providing instant access to clean energy, our product helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, empowers people in off-grid communities to run small businesses, and promotes sustainable economic and social development.
The Deputy Secretary-General expressed great enthusiasm for our product and emphasized the importance of partnerships in achieving the SDGs. She highlighted opportunities for collaboration, including joint projects, knowledge sharing, and capacity-building initiatives, and encouraged us to showcase Africa’s innovations in sustainable energy to the world.
Our meeting underscored the immense potential for partnerships to drive meaningful change and contribute to the UN’s mission of promoting sustainable development and reducing poverty worldwide. We are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and look forward to exploring ways to work together with the UN to achieve our shared goals