PROFILE: Ousman Barrow: Powering Gambia’s Future with Solar Brilliance

From Gunjur’s Streets to the business acumen through the Heart of Solar Innovation, Real Estate Development, Consumer Electronics and Forex.

From Humble Beginnings to Regional Impact

In the sprawling coastal town of Gunjur, where tradition, knowledge and ambition walk side by side, Ousman Barrow, aka "Sir Ous" is building a business empire, central to which is leading a solar revolution. As the founder and CEO of Solar Enterprise Ltd, Barrow has turned a small startup into a regional beacon of clean energy and entrepreneurship.

“You cannot compromise on what powers people’s lives,” says Barrow, reflecting on the company’s commitment to quality.

CEO of Solar Enterprise Ltd - Ousman Barrow aka "Sir Ous"

From modest beginnings, fueled by his father’s belief, business advise and seed capital - Barrow’s vision through a solar company start-up has grown into a dynamic business that’s reshaping how Gambians think about energy.

Building a Business That Builds Trust

Founded in Barrow’s early 20s, Solar Enterprise Ltd has become a trusted name in The Gambia’s solar industry. With a team of over 15 plus employees and contract technicians, the company offers:

• Stock-ready solar components

• Minimum 12-month warranties

• Skilled local technicians

• Reliable post-installation service

Clients across homes, businesses, and institutions trust Solar Enterprise not just for solar panels, but for peace of mind.

“We built this company on three things: quality, trust, and service. The community deserves nothing less.”

A Diversified Gambian Enterprise

 What began as a solar company has evolved into a multi-sector business, now operating in:

• Solar Energy Solutions (Gambia & Sierra Leone)

• Real Estate Development

• Consumer Electronics

• Forex & Currency Exchange

With an outlet in Sierra Leone, and installation contracts in the sub-region, Solar Enterprise is making strides into the wider West African market bringing reliable solar solutions and Gambian entrepreneurial excellence across borders.

“The vision is to export Gambian business values - integrity, service, and community regionally.”

A Business with a Heart for Community

At its core, Solar Enterprise is deeply community-driven. Barrow’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is more than a checkbox - it’s a mission he told Gunjur Online.

What distinguishes Sir Ousman Barrow isn’t just his business model, it’s his deep connection to community development. Solar Enterprise has:

Supported Culture & Talent

• Local artists and creatives receive funding and platform support.

• The company partners with cultural organisations to promote community festivals, and traditional and religious gatherings.

• Donated solar lighting to the Gunjur Cemetery, making night burials safer and more respectful.

• Installed solar systems at the Gunjur beach, helping local fishermen and vendors.

• Supported the construction of the GDA Multi-Purpose Centre, with material contributions and support.

“When you grow up in a place like Gunjur, you don’t forget. You give back, because this is where you come from.”

Culture and youth aren’t expenses - they’re investments. When they grow, the whole country grows.”

Fueling Youth & Sports

• Through his company, Barrow sponsors the annual “Solar Enterprise Football Tournament” at Gunjur Nyamina Field.

• Provides kits, equipment, and financial backing to local teams.

“Culture and youth aren’t expenses - they’re investments. When they grow, the whole country grows.”

A Vision That Looks Beyond Today

Barrow’s ambitions don’t end with installations. His long-term goal is bold:

To build The Gambia’s first privately and locally-owned solar power plant.

To supply clean energy directly to NAWEC.

To create local jobs in technical, operational, and support roles.

“If we can power a village, we can power a nation. The sun is ours - why not use it to power our future?”

A Blueprint for Young Gambians - Inspiration for the Next Generation

In a country where youth unemployment remains a significant challenge, Sir Ousman Barrow stands as a living blueprint for what’s possible through hard work, vision, and local leadership.

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Learn fast, serve well, and never forget your community. Be patient. Take risks. Surround yourself with people who know more than you. And whatever you build, let it serve others too.”

His advice echoes across Gunjur, inspiring countless young people to dream big - not just for themselves, but for their communities.

Final Word

Sir Ousman Barrow is more than an entrepreneur - he is a symbol of what is possible when business meets purpose. Through Solar Enterprise, he’s not only lighting homes but also lighting paths toward sustainability, empowerment, and national pride.

“We are not waiting for the future. We are building it.”

Have a Story to Share?

Have you benefited from Solar Enterprise or worked with Sir Ousman Barrow?

We’d love to hear your story. Reach out to us at editor@gunjuronline.com or tag us on social media using #GunjurOnline or simply leave a comment down below.