The “African Network for Solar Energy” (ANSOLE) is a newly created organization, started in November 2010, which aims to foster research activities in the field of solar energy among African scientists working in Africa. According to Dr. Daniel Egbe, Coordinator of ANSOLE, “I am delighted to be coordinating such a dynamic initiative. There are a large number of gifted students and researchers across Africa and in the diaspora who can help the continent become the global provider of solar energy. It is of utmost importance that they are made aware of each other, take part in exchanges and graduate programs, and engage in research collaborations. ANSOLE will provide them with unique opportunities to do this.” Current research foci for ANSOLE include solar applications for food preservation, for powering rural communities, and for solar street lighting. Another overarching goal is to research and harvest the solar energy potential of the Sahara. The European Commission-funded ICPC-Nanonet project has joined the ANSOLE network, in an advisory capacity, to support ANSOLE’s activities and help build bridges between the organization and complementary institutes for research project proposals. The next ANSOLE meeting will be held in December 2011 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The article can be viewed online at the link below.