Hi everyone,
Africa is always a challenge and this time was no different. But I'm happy to report that my time in Tanzania and Rwanda was very successful. I started out with a group from the Image Project. The Image Project empowers Maasai girls and women in small villages in central Tanzania. The women of Kwale village use the one room school at night and without electricity it was difficult for them to read and write. Deb Pangrel Exe. Dir. of Image Project got a hold of me earlier this year with a urgent request for lights. After a few meetings at Nina's coffee shop I was convinced this would be a great partnership. Delivering our BoGo lights to the women was a amazing experience. While in the village I was able to do a assessment on lighting the school with solar panels in the near future. To light this school will truly make a impact on the lives of families in Kwale village.
From Tanzania it was on to Rwanda. We're partnering with American Refugee Committee to light the hospital/maternity ward in Nybeheki refugee camp. Unfortunately the camp has expanded from around 5000 people to over 13,800, with over 3000 children under the age of 5. Being able to bring in solar light is very important as the camp only has use of the generator for about 2 hours a night. Terry was working on the project and babies were being born around him. On one of our first days in the camp 5 new babies came into the world.
As the camp has expanded so has the scope of our lighting project. We ran out of supplies and time to complete the installation, and training on upkeep of the system. Terry and I are heading back to Rwanda the middle of January to finish the project...stay tuned.
I was also able to do another lantern distribution with our coffee farmers ! This was the 3rd distribution. I'm so proud that we're able to keep our commitment along with help and support from Greg Hoyt at Bull Run Roasters to continue to sell our fabulous Rwandan coffee with the proceeds going back to solar lighting for our farmers.... Drink up !
Continued thanks for all of your love, support, and faith.
Peace to all.
Linda
