In honor of Women’s Day, we are celebrating women entrepreneurs who are breaking barriers, driving innovation, and creating lasting change in their communities. Today, we feature Sharon Daka, the Founder & Director of Kawaida Energy, a company based in Ndola, Zambia, that provides energy equipment and solutions.
Sharon Daka is an entrepreneur deeply committed to sustainability and energy access. Growing up in Zambia, she witnessed firsthand the challenges that many communities face due to limited access to reliable electricity. This experience fueled her passion for creating affordable and sustainable energy solutions for households and businesses, particularly in rural areas.
Through Kawaida Energy, she has dedicated herself to making off-grid solar solutions more accessible, helping communities reduce their reliance on unstable grid power and expensive alternatives. Beyond providing clean energy, Sharon is an advocate for women’s empowerment and youth inclusion in the renewable energy sector, actively encouraging their participation in the industry.
What is one pivotal moment in your entrepreneurial journey that changed the trajectory of your business?
“Load shedding has been a major issue in my country, and it made me realize how urgent the need for reliable energy solutions is. As more companies entered the market selling energy products, I knew I had to differentiate Kawaida Energy. This led me to expand into water purification alongside energy solutions, ensuring that we provide essential services that improve everyday life.”
How do you see your business contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable future?
“Sustainability isn’t just about clean energy—it’s also about empowering communities. I strongly believe in involving more women and youth in cooperatives, giving them the skills and opportunities to build careers in the energy sector. By fostering local talent and creating employment opportunities, we are not only addressing energy challenges but also driving economic growth and social impact.”
If you could give one piece of advice to female entrepreneurs seeking investment, what would it be?
“Networking is everything! Attend conferences, networking sessions, and industry events. Connecting with potential investors and partners is crucial because funding doesn’t just come from having a great idea—it comes from building relationships and positioning yourself in the right circles.”
What were the biggest challenges you faced before securing SIMA’s investment, and how did they impact your business growth?
“Before SIMA’s investment, our biggest challenge was a small customer base and limited revenue growth. Without sufficient funding, expanding our operations and reaching more communities was difficult. We had the vision, but we needed financial support to scale.”
Since receiving SIMA’s investment, what has changed for your company, and what milestones are you most proud of?
“SIMA’s investment helped us gain greater visibility and credibility in the market. More customers trust our products, and we have been able to expand our reach. One of my proudest milestones is seeing Kawaida Energy grow from a small venture into a recognized brand that is making a real difference in people’s lives.”
Sharon Daka is a testament to the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship. Through Kawaida Energy, she is not only providing sustainable energy solutions but also empowering communities and fostering inclusivity. Her dedication to clean energy and social impact continues to inspire other women entrepreneurs to break barriers and invest in change. As she looks ahead, Sharon remains committed to expanding energy access, mentoring young talent, and creating a more sustainable future for Zambia and beyond.