Published Aug 09, 2016by d.light

Q&A with Jacob Okoth, d.light’s New Managing Director of Africa

Learn more about the professional and personal background of d.light's new head of Africa operations

Jacob (right) with d.light colleague Nixon Timbit
Tell us a little about your professional background.

I have more than fifteen years of experience in senior operational roles. These roles cut across the sectors of insurance, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and telecommunications. I also have worked in multiple geographies. My areas of expertise are sales & distribution, general management, marketing, customer experience, route-to-market, strategic planning, and leadership.

Why did you want to join d.light?

d.light’s potential for social impact is absolutely amazing, considering that the majority of the population in the targeted countries in Africa lives off the power grid. The market opportunity exists, and d.light is taking leadership in delivering the necessary solutions. I also was attracted to the culture and diversity of the d.light family.

Jacob (third from right) with d.light team members
What are you most excited about in your new role?

This role gives me the opportunity to influence and change the lives of millions across Africa. This is a mission that I’m passionate about. From a social impact perspective, it reminds me of a similar role I had rolling out payphones across Africa some years ago. Seeing people’s lives change positively is quite a humbling experience for me, more so if the change is as a result of initiatives I am responsible for.

What are your hopes for d.light and the off-grid solar industry over the next few years?

I hope we can steadily progress toward providing more robust solar solutions to off-grid populations Africa through leadership in innovation as well as brand development. These should propel d.light to market leadership across all its geographies in Africa.

Jacob(right) meets with d.light distributors in the field
What would success in this role look like to you?

Customers loving our solar products, and as a result, d.light being the provider of choice when it comes to solar solutions across Africa.

Tell us a little more about yourself. Who’s in your family? What are your favorite activities or hobbies outside of work?

I’m married to Linda. We have two kids right now, Gabriella and Michael, with a third one on the way. I love nature, specifically wildlife, and have even gone gorilla-tracking in the impenetrable rain forest in Bwindi! I also enjoy walking regularly, as it refreshes me and enables me to reflect on various aspects of life. Besides that, I most value quality time with my family.

Anything else about you that we should know?

My life mantra: If you conceive an idea in your mind, believe it in your heart, and utter it with your mouth, then so shall it be.