Innovator & Entrepreneur
1. Personal Background
My name is Oswald Abioseh Dundas, and I was born on February 17, 1991, in Freetown, Sierra Leone. I would like to be introduced as a self-taught engineer, innovator, and entrepreneur dedicated to sustainable energy, waste recycling, and community-driven solutions.
From a young age, I discovered that I had a natural talent for building things. My passion for problem-solving and innovation was evident even during my time at Sierra Leone Grammar School, where I realized I could create practical solutions to everyday challenges. I later pursued knowledge in ICT at Silicon Pro, entrepreneurship courses, and robotics, which strengthened my technical and business acumen.
My early projects included the first full-sized robot in Sierra Leone, DOTNASSER 1.0, as well as a rechargeable belt, night reading glasses, waste utility generators, and other working prototypes. These creations reinforced my belief that technology could be used to solve real-world problems and improve lives.
2. Education & Career
Though I did not follow a conventional academic path in engineering, I am a self-taught innovator who has learned through research, hands-on experience, and mentorship. My career has been shaped by my passion for sustainable development, leading me to establish multiple companies that focus on renewable energy, environmental conservation, and agricultural innovation.
My most notable achievement is the Water Light Technology V1 and V2 Batteries, which use saltwater to generate electricity. This groundbreaking solution provides clean, affordable energy to communities that lack reliable power. Through Oswald Tech Company LTD, I am pioneering sustainable energy solutions that not only reduce carbon footprints but also create opportunities for economic growth.
I founded Eden Agro, which produces dehydrated fruits and vegetables to combat food waste and promote nutrition. Our mission is to support local farmers while providing long-lasting, affordable, and nutritious food options.
My contributions to innovation and social impact have been recognized with several awards, including:
Youth Ambassador Award (2019)
Sierra Leone's 100 Most Influential Youth Award
Mercury Innovation Competition Winner ($5,000) in 2023 for my sea water energy solution
3. Challenges & Turning Points
One of the biggest challenges I have faced is securing funding and resources to scale my projects. Many of my innovations require financial backing to reach the communities that need them most. However, I have continued to push forward, seeking grants, competitions, and partnerships to support my work.
A major turning point in my journey was realizing the potential of Water Light Technology. When I saw how my saltwater-powered batteries could provide affordable electricity to underserved communities, I knew I had created something revolutionary. Winning the Mercury Innovation Competition in 2023 reinforced my belief that local innovations could compete on a global scale.
Another defining moment was when I built DOTNASSER 1.0, the first full-size robot in Sierra Leone. This project demonstrated the power of self-taught engineering and perseverance, proving that innovation is not limited by formal education but driven by passion and determination.
4. Your Work & Impact
My work is centered around renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and waste recycling. Through Oswald Tech and Eden Agro, I am creating solutions that address some of Sierra Leone’s most pressing challenges:
Energy Access: Water Light Technology provides clean electricity using saltwater, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Food Security: Dehydrated fruits and vegetables help preserve food, reduce waste, and support healthier diets.
Environmental Conservation: Waste-to-energy initiatives promote sustainability and reduce pollution.
One of the most rewarding impacts of my work has been seeing families and small businesses benefit from Water Light Technology. In communities with limited electricity access, my innovation has provided a stable, affordable alternative to traditional power sources. Similarly, our eco-friendly cooking solutions have helped reduce charcoal consumption, saving both money and trees.
I am also committed to empowering the next generation of innovators through:
Training Programs: Building local capacity in sustainable energy and community-driven solutions.
Educational Initiatives: Working with schools to integrate sustainability and innovation into curricula.
5. Future & Message
My future goals include:
Scaling up Water Light Technology to provide affordable electricity to millions of people in Africa and beyond.
Expanding Eden Agro to support more farmers and increase the availability of nutritious, long-lasting food.
Advocating for policies that promote grassroots innovation in climate change solutions.
Developing new prototypes that leverage technology to solve pressing environmental and social issues.
My message to the world:
"Innovation is not about waiting for resources; it’s about using what you have to create change. Every challenge is an opportunity to think differently and build solutions that matter. We must empower local innovators, invest in sustainable solutions, and work together to create a cleaner, brighter future."