Sparkwise Initiative

SparkWise is a youth-led clean energy and circular economy project transforming waste into power across underserved communities in Nigeria. Operating in rural and peri-urban areas of Abia, Ogun, and Oyo States — including Oberete-Asa, Umudii, Umule, Odeda, and Ibadan — the initiative responds to the dual challenge of energy poverty and accumulating plastic and electronic waste. SparkWise trains students and local youth to convert discarded plastics and electronics into affordable solar lanterns and small appliances, delivering safe, low-cost lighting to households, students, and small businesses. The work runs through hands-on training, community engagement, and emerging tech hubs focused on repair, recycling, and solar assembly. To date, over 1,000 solar lanterns have been produced, reaching more than 10,000 people. By combining clean energy access with youth empowerment and waste-to-resource innovation, SparkWise builds the next generation of local climate innovators — and a scalable model for community-driven energy transition.