The majority of the households in Sub Saharan Africa are not connected to the electricity grid. That is why they use kerosene lamps for lighting.

Philips has recently introduced a rechargeable solar lantern in Ghana. It is very high quality, and made to provide users a reliable service for many years. It will be backed community-based retailers with spare parts and  well trained technicians.

In July 2008 Philips signed a public private partnership agreement with the Dutch Government, which will see the development of a new generation of sustainable - solar powered lighting solutions for Sub-Saharan Africa. As part of the agreement the Dutch government will provide funding for awareness creation, entrepreneurial training, as well as support for finance mechanisms and project management. Philips in turn commits to provide a balanced investment in new product development for African people and households deprived of access to modern energy services.

This video is produced by Africa Interactive on behalf of Philips.