22 January 2026: Izili Group, a leading Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) off-grid energy and digital social business, backed by BioLite, its majority shareholder since May 2025, announces the acquisition of Qotto, strengthening its footprint across Africa. With this transaction, Izili will operate in six countries, reinforcing its ambition to scale access to sustainable energy solutions across the continent.
A new step in Izili’s growth journey
This acquisition marks a key step in Izili’s expansion in West Africa and strengthens its position as a major player in off-grid energy access. Qotto has built a strong presence in Benin and Burkina Faso, delivering innovative solar solutions to households and entrepreneurs underserved by traditional energy infrastructure.
By welcoming Qotto into the Group, Izili further reinforces its commitment to making clean, reliable and affordable energy accessible, particularly in off-grid and rural communities.
Financing to support long-term development
In parallel with the acquisition, Izili has secured a fi nancing agreement with the Off-Grid Energy Access Fund (OGEF), an impact investment fund dedicated to expanding access to off-grid electricity in Africa. The fi nancing takes the form of $5 million worth of convertible bonds, to support Izili’s growth strategy. This transaction strengthens the Group’s fi nancial structure, providing additional fl exibility to support the long-term and sustainable development of its off-grid energy activities, with the ambition to distribute more than 170,000 solar solutions and over 120,000 digital products by 2028.
Accelerating access to energy across Africa
The acquisition of Qotto opens a new chapter for Izili Group as it continues to scale its impact across Africa. Through the combination of local expertise, robust distribution networks and innovative fi nancing models, the Group intends to extend its services to additional communities and promote inclusive and sustainable economic development.
“The acquisition of Qotto marks an important milestone in Izili’s journey, not only for our expansion in West Africa, but above all for the people it brings together. We are truly proud and excited to welcome the Qotto teams into the Izili Group. Together, we share the same commitment to impact and the same belief that access to clean energy can transform lives. By joining forces, we will be able to go further, reach more communities, and build a stronger future for the off-grid energy sector, ” said Kolawole Osinowo, CEO of Izili Group.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for Qotto to join forces with Izili and BioLite to build a leading player in rural electrifi cation across Sub-Saharan Africa. This merger is the fi rst concrete step of a strategy to create a strong impact in renewable energy access. It empowers our teams to continue – and amplify – our mission: bringing sustainable electricity to those who need it most. We are immensely proud of what this human adventure achieved so far, and we are even more excited about what lies ahead. Picture this: combine committed, competent and passionate teams to provide millions of households with access to electricity, and future generations inheriting a fairer world. That is our mission. And today, we have the means to achieve it on an unprecedented scale. Let’s make it happen!” said Jean Baptiste Lenoir, Co-founder of Qotto.
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About Izili: Formerly Baobab+, Izili is a purpose-driven last-mile distributor of solar energy systems and digital tools in Africa. Since 2015, we have empowered over 2.5 million people through accessible fi nancing and hands-on support, ensuring that clean energy and digital solutions reach even the most remote communities.
About Qotto: Qotto is an innovative and digital-ready essential services provider to rural and underserved consumers in West Africa. Qotto’s vision is that decentralized energy and digital infrastructure will empower African populations and unlock development opportunities. Operating in Benin and Burkina Faso, Qotto has equipped more than 150.000 people with affordable solar solutions, empowering families and entrepreneurs.
