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The Diesel Drama of Ethiopian Banks

Feature Article The Diesel Drama of Ethiopian Banks
FRI, 14 FEB 2025

As renewable energy expert, I’ve had my fair share of head-scratching moments when dealing with Ethiopian banks. You see, in this country, the typical response to a power outage is almost as predictable as a Netflix series plot twist—the diesel generator kicks in. It's like a national ritual: flicker, flicker, roar, and there goes the Perkins generator, taking over like it's the main act. It’s not exactly the sound of progress; more like the sound of burning money and polluting the environment.

Let me be clear: diesel generators have their place, but it's 2025, not the 1980s. So, at Sahantech Solutions, we thought, “Why banks are still relying on these noisy, dirty fuel guzzlers when there’s a much cleaner, more sustainable alternative?” Enter solar energy. The sun is free, it doesn’t pollute, and it doesn’t need to be shipped in from abroad. And guess what? It’s a lot cheaper in the long run. Not rocket science, people.

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Whenever a bank approaches us with a proposal to handle our financial business, the first question we ask is, “What power do you use when the electricity goes out?” If they hit us with “a diesel generator,” the conversation ends faster than you can say “renewable energy.” We don't even need to explain ourselves. It’s simple: We’re not in the business of contributing to environmental destruction or keeping a dying system afloat. If you’re running a diesel backup, you’re not going to be our partner. End of story.

But here’s the thing: international organizations driving solar energy adoption country wide doing business with these banks actually hold the key to changing the game. They’re sitting on a golden opportunity to drive the shift to solar. Think about it—these companies have the resources and influence to show Ethiopian banks that going solar isn’t just an environmental win; it’s a financial win too. They could be the ones helping these banks make the leap to a cleaner, cheaper, and more sustainable future.

So, to those international energy players out there: It's time to step up. How about pushing these banks to adopt solar solutions instead of letting them continue worshipping their diesel generators? You’ve got the power (pun intended) to help move the needle, and believe me, the banks will thank you. Not only will they save money in the long term, but they’ll also look like the cool, responsible financial institutions everyone wants to bank with.

At Sahantech, we prioritized solar powered banks handle our financial business and honestly, it’s the best call we’ve ever made. Now, it’s time for international partners to follow suit and prevent banks pretending their diesel generators are a badge of honor. They’re not; they’re just an outdated excuse for not investing in the future.

Jibril Mohamed Ahmed
Jibril Mohamed Ahmed, © 2025

Jibril Mohamed Ahmed is a scholar and practitioner in International Relations, currently pursuing a PhD at Selinus University, Italy. His research critically examines the effects of foreign aid on political stability in Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on Ethiopia, Nigeria, and South Sudan. He holds . More Jibril Mohamed Ahmed is a scholar and practitioner in International Relations, currently pursuing a PhD at Selinus University, Italy. His research critically examines the effects of foreign aid on political stability in Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on Ethiopia, Nigeria, and South Sudan.

He holds a Master’s degree in Political Science and International Relations from Addis Ababa University and a Bachelor’s in Public Administration from Rift Valley University. Jibril has served in various impactful roles, including Chief Executive Director at Abadir Development Association, Vice President at Ramaas University, and Consultant at J.D Consultancy Group. His experience also includes a tenure as Project Officer with the Somali Community in Ethiopia.
Column: Jibril Mohamed Ahmed

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