Solar Energy, Transforming Lives in Tanzania

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Solar Energy, Transforming Lives in Tanzania

Ever since the installation of solar PV at his shop, shopkeeper Dadi Nandiwa, has seen his life changed for the better. His daily Sales Improved by over 30 per cent. He can now extend operational hours from the previous 7 pm to 10 pm.

At the household level, Husna Ally, a pupil from Miyuyu Primary School now studies for extra hours into the late nights ever since the solar power gadget was installed in her home.

Little Ally says that solar light at the business centre helps her mon sell her goods from morning to late evening. The money from the business helps in financing Ally’s education.

It is quite a challenge for African Governments to provide electricity for rural areas. These Countries have been seeking other options efficient enough for the rural settlers to cook their foods and light their homes. Stand-alone sources of energy, such as solar, wind and mini-hydro generators, can help fill the gap.

In Tanzania, the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) is working with a local civil society organization, Mtwara Action For Self-Help Activities (MASHA), to change life patterns of Miyuyu Villagers, Newala District.

MASHA aims at fighting poverty, disease, ignorance, environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity through collective action, community mobilization and empowerment to change the outlook of Miyuyu Village.

Despite lacking a power connection to the national grid, the village enjoys the benefits brought by the alternative power sources.

According to Masha director Allan Mkopoka, “The electrified business centre helps youth and women engage in business and makes them extend the time for doing business.”

He said the project focuses on seeing the citizens of Miyuyu Village have a means of generating income through available renewable energy technology.

“There is a good trend in the adoption of solar technology from four households in 2016 to 60 households this year,” Mkopoka said.

Secretary to MASHA, Veronica Chabruma, stated that the project is aimed at ensuring the application of renewable energy within the region to help local communities promote the fight against climate change and its actions. It also aimed at fostering the creation of society that is resilient to climate change.

Both officials are grateful with the continued support from WWF-TCO that has significantly changed peoples’ livelihood.

“The WWF is happy to see that the local community have the means of sourcing their livelihood that are environmentally friendly,” says WWF-TCO energy coordinator Savinus Kessy.

Culled from www.thecitizen.co.tz

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