Additional Context: The Health Electrification and Telecommunications Alliance was part of Power Africa, the U.S. government's interagency initiative designed to double electricity access across sub-Saharan Africa. Bypassing local grid infrastructure shortfalls by promoting the installation of off-grid solar power systems or smart nano-grids, this five-year project was meant to bring reliable access to electricity to hospitals and clinics across the continent. Though terminated in early 2025, it had already electrified 782 facilities accessed by 11 million people across 14 countries, and worked with 44 public and private partners to leverage a total of $17.5 million.

Revenue-generating activities within the hospitals served as a cornerstone of the long-term sustainability of the systems installed. For example, these initiatives included kiosks selling water, charging devices, and phone minutes as well as drug dispensaries doubling as pharmacies for the general public. Excess energy generated by solar panels would also be made accessible to national grids and be sold at low prices.

A source familiar with the alliance told The Aid Report that while these activities were meant to be self-sufficient in the long run, this had not yet been achieved by the time of grant termination, affecting funding for system repair and continuity of operations.

The source has requested to remain anonymous.