Thauzeni Chibweza, a 27-year-old from Chindapa Village in TA Kasakula, Malawi lives with his wife, Caroline Mwale, and their young child. Their life revolves around farming, with soya beans drying outside their home on this sunny day as our team is visiting. However, despite the bright sun, as evening falls, their home is plunged into darkness.
Without access to reliable light, Thauzeni and his family faced several challenges. The darkness made it difficult and dangerous to move around. “We have scorpions in our area, and it’s really dangerous to move around in the dark,” Thauzeni shared. “We use grass to light the house, but it’s not very effective, and it requires a lot of work.“
Thauzeni relaxing on his veranda listening to music and spending time with his nephew. Photo: SolarAid/Kondwani Jere
Thauzeni recalls a painful accident caused by the lack of light, “One time, I hit a brick and fractured my small toe. I was walking out of the house and didn’t know there was a brick in my way.” This injury, which left a scar, was just one example of the many dangers faced by Thauzeni and his family due to the darkness.
The family’s limited light sources—grass and kerosene lamps—offered little comfort. The evening would descend into silence, with everyone staying indoors as the village became pitch black. “It’s really dark and quiet. We usually just stay inside,” said Thauzeni, who also worried for their child. “Our child has to study either at school or his grandmother’s house. As for work, we can’t really do anything in the evenings, which limits our productivity.”
Thauzeni’s hopes for the future were clear, “I hope we can improve our farming and provide a better life for our child.” Yet, the absence of light created difficulties in achieving these dreams, limiting both their daily productivity and their child’s ability to study at home.
Thauzeni’s wife Caroline using what is called ‘Miyaso’ -grass set on fire and used as a burning torch to illuminate the house. Photo: SolarAid/Kondwani Jere
The day of our visit, marked a turning point in Thauzeni’s life, as part of SolarAid’s project, Light a Village – this was the day that a solar home system was being installed at Thauzeni’s and Caroline’s life – and it would change the life of the family of three.
A Bright New Beginning
“It was an incredible feeling! My heart was filled with joy,” Thauzeni tells us when we visit the day after the installation. “We could not sleep. It was really a great feeling.”
The introduction of the solar home system brought transformative changes. “Having light will open up new opportunities for us,” Thauzeni shared with with a smile. Now, he can continue working on his farm even after the sun sets, and he and his wife are planning to start a small business. The future, once clouded by uncertainty, now seemed filled with potential.
Thauzeni and Caroline are no longer worrying as the sun is setting. Photo: SolarAid/Konwani Jere.
Thauzeni no longer needed to rely on homemade torches or straw fire. “Solar lights have brought a new level of convenience and safety to our lives,” he explained. “We can now enjoy brighter and more reliable lighting without any risks. It’s a game-changer for us.”
Not only did the solar light provide a practical solution, but it also gave Thauzeni and his family a greater sense of security. They don’t have to worry as much about dangerous animals, such as scorpions and snakes. “With the brighter illumination, we can see clearly and take precautions to keep ourselves safe,” Thauzeni said, speaking about the sense of security the lights have brought.
In addition to improving safety, the lights allowed for more family time. “We will definitely spend more time sitting around and chatting in the evening,” Thauzeni said. “We’ll share stories, talk about our day, and discuss plans for the future.” This simple, yet profound, shift allowed the family to strengthen their bond, making evenings together more meaningful.
Thauzeni and Caroline using the solar home system on the first night. Photo: SolarAid/Kondwani Jere.
Thauzeni’s excitement didn’t stop there—he even dreamed of adding a TV to their home to watch football matches, especially when Manchester United plays. “My wife doesn’t understand why I come home late sometimes,” he laughed.
Beyond the immediate benefits, Thauzeni recognised the broader environmental impact of solar energy. “Solar energy is definitely good for the climate. By harnessing the power of the sun, we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and contribute to a cleaner environment,” he said, acknowledging how solar energy is both a practical and sustainable solution for their community and the planet.
As more homes in the village gain access to solar lighting, Thauzeni’s hopes for the future is growing brighter. “With access to light, our village will become more vibrant and active during the evenings. People will have more opportunities to engage in productive activities, such as studying, working, or starting small businesses. It will create a sense of unity and progress within our community.”
The happy couple in front or their now lit-up house. Photo: SolarAid/Kondwani Jere
A New Hope for the Future
With solar light now illuminating their home, Thauzeni’s aspirations for himself and his family have expanded. “I hope to improve our standard of living and provide better opportunities for my child,” he shared. With the added income from their planned mandazi business, Thauzeni envisions investing in their child’s education and securing a brighter future for them, “We are excited for what lies ahead.”
Thauzeni’s journey—from darkness to light—is a testament to how solar energy is not just a source of lighting but it brings hope, safety, and opportunity. Through solar power, families like Thauzeni’s can now dream bigger, work harder, and build a more sustainable future for themselves and their communities.
Learn more about Light a Village, and Energy-as-a-Service here.