By Chloë Noonan
Photos: Mark Faeren Hirekaan
When Mohammed Hajara Adamu received a call from her former lecturer, Engineer Gloria Jola, she had no idea what was in store.
A graduate of Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, Hajara had studied under Gloria’s guidance and maintained a strong connection with her. So when Gloria reached out about an opportunity to install solar electric systems with We Care Solar, Hajara didn’t hesitate.
“She said, ‘Do you want to work with female engineers?’ I said, ‘Yes, I’m interested.’ She didn’t give me all the details at first, but when I learned we would be installing solar in hospitals, especially in rural areas, I was so happy.”
Since then, Hajara has become a vital member of the We Care Solar team in Bauchi State, helping deliver clean, reliable light to maternal health clinics in energy-scarce communities.
With every installation, she’s not just bringing solar power—she’s building relationships, offering training, and helping improve conditions for health workers and mothers alike. Hajara’s training as a We Care Solar installer opened up a world of new experiences. From learning the technical aspects of solar installation to teaching others, she embraced the opportunity with joy.
“I was so excited. I had the privilege of going to the roof, of learning, of teaching. I’m proud to be one of the We Care Solar installers. I feel so good.”
Her favorite moments often come during the community trainings, where she engages with health workers, local leaders, and villagers—many of whom are encountering solar technology for the first time.
“I always tell them: ask me anything. Whatever you don’t understand, feel free. You are the ones who will use the light. I want you to know how to operate it.”
Her warmth and respect for others make her a powerful teacher. She credits part of her success to her name—Mohammed Hajara Adamu—a name that holds deep meaning in the predominantly Muslim northern region. “When people hear ‘Hajara,’ they feel I am their sister. Some call me mother, some daughter. They listen to me.”
Respect, Training, and Trust
In a field that can often be dominated by men, Hajara stands out not just for her technical skills, but for her approach.
“There’s no challenge with me talking to them. I greet them respectfully. I ask them to be present during installation, and I speak calmly, with a smile. Even when they don’t know the use of something, like a fetal doppler or a headlamp, they are eager to learn.”
One of her proudest moments came when she saw the community’s reaction to their new Solar Suitcase: “The joy, the appreciation, the way they thanked We Care Solar—it made me feel so proud. I’m grateful that I get to help make people so happy and comfortable using light.”
More Than Just Light
Hajara has witnessed firsthand the life-saving impact of We Care Solar’s work. She’s seen the difference clean energy can make in the lives of mothers, babies, and the health workers who support them.
“I’ve learned that solar power can be used to power virtually anything,” she shared. “And that with light, health workers can deliver babies safely. The headlamp, the fetal doppler, the thermometer—now they know how to use them. Before, they didn’t even know what they were for.”
She describes a particularly emotional moment during a delivery: “The midwife used the headlamp, and the baby came out shining, happy. The mother, too, so joyful. Because there was light. She knew nothing was going to happen to her.”
A Call to Other Women
As the number of women installers grows—nine participated in the most recent training in the Federal Capital Territory—Hajara encourages others to join the field.
“Be humble. Respect the people you meet. Talk to them kindly. There are no foolish questions. Just smile, listen, and teach.”
Gratitude and Hope
As she reflects on her journey, Hajara expresses deep gratitude for being part of We Care Solar’s mission:
“Thank you, We Care, for bringing this impact to Bauchi State. Thank you for letting me be part of this. I am so happy, as a woman, having this experience—it’s a thing of joy. Every woman who gives birth in light will be proud and safe. Thank you for making us women feel proud of ourselves.”
Thank you to all our supporters, installers, and health workers that make this work possible.
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