October 2008 Archives
The SolarAid team has evolved again with the growing success of the charity.
Mason Huffine has been appointed as Operations Manager in Tanzania, bringing years of environmental experience to the post. Mason is joined by Alfred Wise who will be leading on our efforts to raise more funds in Tanzania to further our work there. In Kenya, we have appointed Gavin Bowen as our Country Business Manager.
We very much look forward to working with our new team members and, in the words of Mason, to 'Getting things done!'
And some in-country updates...
In Zambia, we've done macro installations on five community centres in the past few weeks, with five more planned in the coming weeks. In Tanzania, the microsolar group with Neema Crafts in Iringa is progressing well, with 1,400 microsolar products built and sold in the past six months or so. In Malawi, the converted light bulb is proving particularly popular, with 170 sold recently, so we're looking into how we can roll out that product on a wider scale.
SolarAid's director, Nick has recently been at a solar conference in Germany and reports: 'The challenge for reaching hundreds of millions with solar energy is immense, but we need to keep in mind that it is achievable so long as we keep our eyes are on the objective: a solar world for all.'
More updates from us all soon, and make sure you check the project blogs for more in-country news.
We're looking for runners (no previous experience required!) to take part in this year's Santa Run in Greenwich Park on Sunday 7th December to raise money for solar projects in Africa.
Be amongst an estimated 1,000 people taking part in this festive run, taking place in the glorious setting of Greenwich Park in South East London.
The spirit of the event is 'taking part' not 'winning' so you can run, jog or walk - it's up to you! The important thing is that you have fun and raise money for SolarAid at the same time! We suggest £100 as a guideline target for each runner, although this is not mandatory and there is even a free santa costume for every runner!
SolarAid have 25 places and 17 supporters have signed up already. The places are going fast so if you're interested, please sign up today to avoid disappointment. There is a £20 registration fee and you can register online by clicking here:
http://www.doitforcharity.com/doitforcharity-5k-santa-run-2008.aspx?c=62528
Closing date is Friday 7th November.
Thank you and we hope to see you there!
