Bryan: May 2011 Archives

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On April 25th I arrived with colleagues at the shores of Lake Victoria in Nyanza Province. We were there to install solar panels on two health centres and also promote SunnyMoney microsolar lights.

Community members unloading macrosolar panels on Oyamo island.

The Macrosolar team (the guys who install large systems on schools, health clinics and community centres) joined me and headed to the Osani Island and Oyamo Island health centres. We worked alongside partner organisation OGRA Foundation who run an integrated health and social services programme to mitigate the effects of poverty on wellbeing. The installations included a solar powered fridge to store perishable medicines and vaccines.

Hudson (left) and Bryan on their way to Oyamo island.

As Microsolar Assistant I spent my time shuttling between the islands. This involved crossing back and forth over a very choppy and scary Lake Victoria to reach the sites!

Community members with Macrosolar Coordinator Victor (centre).

The Oyamo Island community is made up almost entirely of fishermen, who were excited about the arrival of SunnyMoney solar lights. The portable systems enable people to replace toxic kerosene lanterns and dangerous candles with clean and safe light. Consequently, health is dramatically improved and the risk of fire is lowered. What's more, it allows both children and parents to study and work into the dark of night - a significant and liberating aspect of microsolar.

The men in these communities usually head on to the lake to fish at night and at dawn. SunnyMoney lamps act as a superior alternative to kerosene lanterns and light their way during the darkness. Seeing the benefits, the Fishermen's Union bought 26 solar lights then ordered many more. Home owners and head teachers expressing an interest in SunnyMoney products also placed orders through the Fishermen's Union.

Ms Ochieng holding her new SunnyMoney microsolar light.

On Osani island, good sales were recorded from the locals who have been frustrated by the sky rocketing cost of kerosene. Our lights are seen as a great way to save money with a superior product. They were particularly happy with the added mobile phone charging function on our systems. The lights effectively sold themselves as a symbol of practicality, affordability and reliability to the people of Osani and Oyamo Island.

More news soon.

Bryan