Ghirmay Abraham

Last updated
Ghirmay Abraham
Born
Ghirmay Zeray Abraham

NationalityEritrean
Education University of Asmara
OccupationBusiness executive
EmployerAptech Africa (2011–Present)
Known for Renewable energy
TitleCo-founder and Chairman at Aptech Africa

Ghirmay Zeray Abraham is an Eritrean business executive and entrepreneur. He is the co-founder and managing director of Aptech Africa, a provider of renewable energy and water solutions across Africa. [1]

Contents

Born in Eritrea, Ghirmay studied mechanical engineering at the University of Asmara. After graduation, he pursued a career in the renewable energy sector, focusing on expanding access to electricity and water for underserved communities. [2] [3] Ghirmay's entrepreneurial journey has earned him recognition as a Top 10 finalist in the 2021 Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) competition, an initiative by the Jack Ma Foundation. [4]

Career at Aptech Africa

In 2011, Ghirmay co-founded Aptech Africa with his brother Metkel Zerai. Aptech founded as a renewable energy company in Juba, South Sudan. As reported Aptech started with $20,000 in personal and family savings. Initially selling solar lanterns, the company secured its first major contract in 2012, installing solar panels at a medical facility. [5]

Under his leadership, Aptech stayed operational amid the South Sudan civil war, taking over abandoned projects. Notably, in 2016, they successfully installed solar systems for five teacher training colleges in South Sudan despite ongoing conflict. Expanding into Uganda in 2016, Aptech grew into niche markets like solar water pumps and refrigeration. The company has since grown into a multinational enterprise, providing solar energy solutions and water pumping systems to communities across Africa. Since its founding, Aptech has operations in African countries including South Sudan, Central African Republic, Sierra Leone, Rwanda, Liberia, DRC, and Niger while being headquartered in Uganda. [6]

In 2019, Aptech named one of the “Companies to Inspire Africa in 2019” by the London Stock Exchange Group. In 2020, Aptech was also named Best in Business honoree by Essence magazine. [7]

Social impact

Ghirmay drives social impact by improving access to electricity and clean water in underserved African communities where Aptech operates. Through solar energy and water solutions, his work enhances livelihoods, supports food security, and fosters economic empowerment by creating jobs and training opportunities. [4]

Recognitions

Personal life

Ghirmay is married and has four children. [1]

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