Since 2020, Namene’s solar lights have been empowering homes, families and communities in Zambia. Now, we’re keeping them connected with our Zafi Solar Charger, giving them power to charge their portable devices – crucially, their mobile phones – with the sun.

In a country where reliable electricity is not guaranteed, the Zafi charger is more than a convenience, it’s a lifeline.

Here, Zafi distributor Incotech shares their experience working with Namene, and why affordable clean energy products like Zafi are a game-changer for their customers.

Why Zafi Solar Charger is a Game-Changer

Our partnership with Incotech, one of Zambia’s leading distributors, is at the heart of this effort. Incotech has been distributing technology products, including smartphones, on credit to some of the country’s most underserved populations. By bundling the Zafi Solar Charger with Nokia mobile phones, they’re offering a complete, off-grid solution that allows people to stay connected, even in areas where access to power is limited or unreliable.

In Zambia, frequent blackouts and unreliable grid electricity have created a high demand for off-grid energy products. As Peter Nyongani, Head of Operations, at Incotech, explains, “Currently, Zambia is experiencing something of a power crisis, with regular blackouts countrywide. This means that there are many people living with a power deficit. For them, products like the Zafi solar charger are very needed so that they can charge their phones whenever they need and stay connected to friends and family.”

Zafi is particularly well-suited to meet this need. Compact, efficient, and easy to use, it provides a reliable solution for charging mobile phones and other small devices.

As Peter puts it, “The Zafi charger has been a game-changer for us. It has excited our customers, and the response from the market has been very positive. It’s a product that feels solid and of high quality when you hold it, and customers appreciate the simplicity of its plug-and-play design.”

For many Zambians, this is their first experience with a solar charger, making Zafi an exciting new technology in the market. Peter adds, “After we carry out initial sales activities in a village, when we return, the first question they ask is if we have come with the solar chargers. It’s an exciting product because it’s still quite new to the market, and people are quickly seeing the benefits.”

A smiling Inocotech Customer in Zambia with the Zafi solar charger and Nokia HMD smartphone.

Building on a Strong Partnership

Incotech has been operating in Zambia for three years, offering technology products on credit to low-income communities. This business model works particularly well in rural areas, where the upfront cost of everyday tech like smartphones or solar products can be out of reach for many. Through this partnership, Namene and Incotech are addressing a critical need for affordable, off-grid energy solutions.

Incotech’ s partnership with Namene has grown quickly, with Zafi solar chargers now available in six provinces across Zambia. As Peter points out, “We’re enjoying the relationship with Namene, and we’re hoping to see it grow in the future. Our established sales channels and strong customer base are a perfect fit for products like the Zafi charger, which are in high demand due to the power challenges the country is facing.”

By leveraging their network and local knowledge, Incotech has been able to deliver Zafi solar chargers to communities that need them most. And with plans to expand further into Zambia’s southern region, the future looks bright for this partnership. Incotech is also working closely with HMD, the official distributor of Nokia mobile phones in Zambia, to bundle these phones with the Zafi charger, making it easier for customers to access both communication and power solutions in one affordable package.

Zafi Solar Charger charging a mobile phone in the sun.

Meeting Demand for Off-Grid Energy Solutions

As Zambia continues to face power shortages, the demand for off-grid energy products like the Zafi Solar Charger will only grow. With Namene’s solar products and Incotech’ s distribution reach, we’re well-positioned to meet this demand and ensure that more people can stay connected, even when the lights go out.

Peter sums it up perfectly: “Having a reliable solar charger like Zafi keeps our customers connected through the blackouts and provides a solution that no other product on the market is offering them. The fact that it’s affordable and reliable is the most important thing to our customers.”

At Namene, we’re committed to providing clean, sustainable energy solutions that improve people’s lives, no matter where they live. Our partnership with Incotech is just one example of how we’re working to create lasting change in Zambia and beyond.

Together, we’re connecting and empowering people through clean technology; unlocking new opportunities, enabling them to stay in touch with loved ones, and helping them thrive.

Purchase Zafi or become a partner today

As we continue to grow our partnerships and expand our reach, we’re always looking for like-minded organisations and partners to join us in making clean energy accessible to all.

Learn more about our work to empower every community, or explore distribution and partnership opportunities, get in touch with our sales team: tariro.karira@namenesolar.com/sales@namenesolar.com