ECOWAS and GIZ launch solar PV certification training in Guinea-Bissau

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Published On - September 24, 2025

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Bissau, September 24, 2025 — ECOWAS and GIZ have launched preparatory training for the ECSES (ECOWAS Certification for Sustainable Energy Skills) program in off-grid solar photovoltaic systems. The training began on 22 September at the Escola de Artes e Ofícios de Quelélé in Bissau.

The opening ceremony gathered representatives from the Ministry of Economy of Guinea-Bissau, Acção para o Desenvolvimento (AD), the Escola de Artes e Ofícios, and ECREEE.

Speaking on behalf of ECREEE, Dr. Claudino Mendes described ECSES as both a mark of technical excellence and a pathway to professional opportunities in West Africa’s growing renewable energy sector. He commended Guinea-Bissau’s commitment to building local capacity and expanding access to sustainable energy.

AD’s Executive Director, Jorge Hadem, highlighted the contributions of ECOWAS, GIZ, and ECREEE, stressing the importance of women’s participation in the sector. Honório Correia, Director of the Escola de Artes e Ofícios, underlined the value of regional cooperation and harmonized technical standards, noting that certification programs like ECSES prepare professionals to compete in the regional market.

The initiative is funded by the Regional Fund for Stabilization and Development (FRSD), implemented by the ECOWAS Commission with support from Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). It aims to equip participants with the skills to pass certification exams and build careers as certified solar PV technicians.