### Jokosun Energies: a silent revolution in Senegalese waters
In a world in search of lasting solutions in the face of climate change, the Jokosun Energies initiative acts as a headlight of hope. While green energies gain field on a global scale, the Senegalese SME based in Casamance perfectly illustrates the possibility of a marriage between technological innovation and respect for the local ecosystem. This transformation, initiated by Raymond Sarr since 2018, is not satisfied with a simple change of engine. It embodies a real cultural and economic revolution for communities that have traditionally based their daily lives on energy -consuming and polluting practices.
#### Innovation with high added value
What is striking with the Jokosun model is the company’s ability to be part of a circular approach, while offering a low initial innovation. The retrofit of thermal motors in electric motors, keeping the propeller and chassis, not only reduces noise and pollution, but also generates substantial savings for piroguers. Indeed, the promise to reduce fuel costs by 50 % and reduce maintenance costs by three is a major argument that attracts more and more members to this initiative.
But this financial question is only an aspect of a much larger debate. At a time when the preservation of marine ecosystems has become crucial, the transition to electric motors appears as a moral imperative as well as economic. Climate change and overfishing already threaten the maritime resources in the region. By opting for electrical solutions, piroguiers also contribute to a healthier future for marine species, while making their activity more sustainable in the long term.
#### An extended vision on socio -cultural impact
Jokosun Energies, combining technology and local culture, succeeds in reaching various aspects of the life of the piroguiers. Mame Birra Barro, a committed piroguier, underlines how this transformation assisted by technology changes the dynamics of tourist visits and fishermen. The reduction in the noise of engines allows not only a reinforced connection with nature, but it also modifies the perception that tourists have Senegal as an ecological destination. This new image could potentially attract investments in the sustainable tourism sector, thus creating a virtuous circle of economic development.
In addition, the training of local mechanics to work on these electrical systems reinforces technical skills within the community. The creation of green and sustainable jobs thus becomes a by-product of this innovation, adding an additional socio-economic dimension to the company, which could inspire other initiatives through the African continent.
#### Comparison with global initiatives
By placing initiatives like Jokosun Energies in parallel with other similar projects worldwide, we can learn precious lessons. For example, the boom in electric transport ships in Norway, which have managed to reduce carbon emissions by focusing on energy alternatives, reveals a growing trend towards the decarbonization of maritime transport. However, these solutions often require significant initial investments and infrastructure that is not always viable, particularly in emerging economies.
Conversely, Jokosun’s approach, based on retrofit and leasing, makes it possible to mitigate this high initial investment risk, which could make it even more adaptable to other African or Asia countries, where green regulations are more and more sustained.
#### to an electric future
While Jokosun Energies is preparing to expand its fleet of electric canoes, going from five to twenty unidades in the coming months, the stake is of size: it is not only a technical milestone, but also a promise of future for future generations. The energy transition is accompanied by the duty to educate and raise awareness of environmental issues, to involve them in the decision -making process and to ensure that economic and environmental benefits are shared.
By thinking about the economic, social and environmental model, Jokosun Energies offers a stimulating example to follow. Africa, rich in its natural resources and its cultural traditions, could become the cradle of similar initiatives, marrying modernity and ancient know-how, to build a resilient future, lit by green electricity. This model may well prove to be a driving force of change for sustainable development at the continent.