Problem

A rural Ugandan town was struggling with a lack of access to electricity, which was hindering economic growth and development. The town's residents were forced to rely on kerosene lamps and other inefficient sources of lighting, which were expensive and harmful to their health.

Without access to reliable electricity, local businesses were unable to operate after dark, limiting their potential for growth. Additionally, students had difficulty studying at night without proper lighting, hindering their educational opportunities.

Learn more about the problem here.

Solution

What started with fundraising for a community library turned into many years of growth and development for a rural Ugandan town. Years ago while working for a project at UBC we fundraised for a new library in Kitengesa, Uganda. As noted in another project, a washable menstrual pad company took over the original library space to start their small business. We brought in solar power to the community library so people could charge their cell phones to access valuable resources online and connect with the outside world. The opportunities didn't stop there. Eventually the community library director and menstrual pads company, along with other community leaders brought in wired electricity to this small rural town. This meant they could build a larger factory and hire more people. Other valuable businesses such as a much neede grain mill could also open up shop. Talk about an impactful butterfly effect.

Impact

Increased economic opportunities for local businesses
Improved health outcomes for residents by reducing reliance on kerosene lamps
Increased in student performance due to improved access to study materials at night
Increased health and well-being with better access to health care providers

Electricity Transforms a Rural Uganda Town