The Origines Light Tour initiative wrapped up its first edition on September 19, 2026, at the Institut français du Bénin's theatre de verdure in Benin. The program, which ran from August 2025 to June 2026, covered six cities in the country. It aimed to promote energy access and cultural development through a combination of solar energy installations, vocational training, and free concerts.
During its first edition, Origines Light Tour achieved significant milestones. The program trained over 1,800 young people in solar energy-related skills and installed 65 solar-powered streetlights in neighborhoods that previously lacked public lighting. Additionally, the initiative drew over 33,000 spectators to its free concerts. These accomplishments reflect the program's multifaceted approach to community development.
The closing ceremony was an opportunity for the organizers to make several key announcements. A new foundation, Fondation Origines Light Tour, was established to ensure the program's continuity. Furthermore, a second edition of the tour was confirmed for 2027, featuring Zeynab as the headliner. The program also plans to expand its vocational training beyond solar energy, accompanied by a startup fund to support young entrepreneurs.
Another significant announcement was the integration of the musical comedy, Le Trône de Béhanzin, which tells the story of the Dahomey kingdom. This production will accompany the tour throughout its future editions. Origines Light Tour is a sociocultural program that combines solar lighting installations, vocational training, and free concerts in each host city.
Amir Alli, appointed as the program's Commissioner, oversees the direction of Origines Light Tour. The initiative was born out of a collaboration between a musical tour and a Beninese company specializing in solar public lighting. Since its inception, the program has linked three core actions: installation, training, and music.
The second edition of Origines Light Tour is expected to be more extensive, with seven stages and nine cities, aiming to train 2,750 young people and install at least 200 solar-powered streetlights. Already, 100 streetlights have been mobilized by ESOM, a partner of the program since its first edition. This expansion demonstrates the growing support and ambitions of the initiative.
Origines Light Tour has made a notable impact in its first edition, and its future editions are anticipated with interest. By associating energy access, vocational training, and cultural events, the program contributes to the development of local communities in Benin. The initiative's growth and partnerships signal its potential for continued positive influence in the region.
Key points
- The first edition of Origines Light Tour trained over 1,800 young people in solar energy skills and installed 65 solar-powered streetlights.
- A second edition of the tour is planned for 2027, featuring Zeynab and aiming to train 2,750 young people.
- The program has established a foundation to ensure its continuity and plans to expand its vocational training and integrate a musical comedy, Le Trône de Béhanzin.
