By Badylon Kawanda Bakiman
After more than three decades of experience abroad, E-Kinergy—a renewable energy company specializing in advanced solar solutions—has officially set up operations in Kikwit, the economic and political heart of Kwilu province in southwestern Democratic Republic of Congo. Its entry marks a pivotal moment for thousands of Kikwitois and Kikwitoises seeking an affordable, modern, and sustainable alternative to decades of unreliable power.
The company made its debut on Saturday, December 6, 2025, during a well-attended energy seminar hosted in the large multipurpose hall of the University of Kikwit (UNIKIK). Through the support of Rector Alphonse Kapumba, the university provided a calm and accommodating venue for what many participants described as an “important turning point” in the city’s energy future.
Invited by Kikwit Mayor Abe Ngiama, E-Kinergy arrives at a time when the long-awaited Kakobola hydroelectric plant in Gungu territory remains non-operational, leaving the city in near-perpetual darkness. The company’s mission aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 7, which calls for universal access to reliable, modern, and affordable energy.
The seminar drew a diverse audience: political and administrative leaders, members of the urban security council, academics, civil society representatives, community leaders, students, and residents eager for change.
Mayor Ngiama did not hide his optimism.
“The darkness in which our city has been plunged will soon disappear with the arrival of E-Kinergy,” he said, introducing CEO Giovanni and his technical team from Europe. “On behalf of the city of Kikwit, we welcome them warmly and wish them every success. I ask our population to embrace this opportunity enthusiastically, especially as it came through the tireless efforts of one of our own sons.”
Rector Kapumba acknowledged both the magnitude and the promise of the initiative.
“It is a magnificent and ambitious project,” he said. “But it will require genuine commitment. If enough households subscribe, we can secure a stable power supply and enjoy reliable electricity for decades.”
Pastor Jean-Baptiste Mbana, E-Kinergy’s national representative, offered a sobering reminder of why the project matters. He highlighted the city’s long-standing challenges—darkness, unemployment, environmental degradation—and the urgency of providing concrete solutions.
“Concerned by the state of our city, we knocked on doors near and far until we found partners ready to help,” he explained. “Energy was chosen as the first priority because it allows us to light the streets, reduce juvenile delinquency, create jobs, and stimulate small and medium-sized enterprises.”
For many residents, E-Kinergy’s arrival represents more than a technical upgrade—it rekindles hope for restoring the reputation of Kikwit, once affectionately called the “Latin Quarter of the DRC” for its cultural and intellectual vibrancy.
On the technical side, International Sales Manager Marchica Giovanni detailed the innovative systems the company is deploying.
“E-Kinergy uses next-generation photovoltaic panels combined with smart hybrid inverters and lithium-ion batteries,” he explained. “This ensures reliable energy autonomy, enhanced performance, long-term durability, and a rapid return on investment—all without polluting the environment.”
The company has opened its first phase of subscriptions and registrations, running until January 15, 2026. The response from Kikwit’s residents will determine not only the scale of the project but also how quickly the city can move from decades of darkness to a new era powered by clean, modern solar energy.
