The Project
Enlightening Malawi is a non-profit organization focused on bringing solar energy to the rural villages of Malawi, Africa. It is a sister project of Africa Bags and has successfully introduced its first solar panel systemss to the villages of Kamweko, Chintheche, and Viweme within Malawi. Enlightening Malawi was created 5 years ago by 16 year old, Keely Petitt, who is now currently a Senior in college . After Visiting Malawi for the first time in 2008 she saw a great need for electricity in the villages, and since then has created Enlightening Malawi to give light to the villagers within Malawi.
Goals of the Project
I have successfully fund raised to install my first solar panel into Kamweko’s Community Development Center. After initially raising $250 I purchased a small solar system which allows the Community Development Center (CDC) within Kamweko to have light and charge cell phones! This small system operates using 4 LED lights, one 10” by 16” solar panel, and a small motorcycle battery. Since this first installation, solar systems have been installed at Viweme and Chintheche CDC’s. Meanwhile, I will continue fundraising to purchase small solar systems for the remaining groups participating in the Africa Bags project, as well as to expand the current single panel systems to a full solar system, that will provide their community with enough electrical power to light up the CDC, operate computers, and even charge cell phones. The estimated cost of the full solar system is $2000.00. Once I have raised the money I will move my initial, smaller solar system to the next community, and the project will continue, one village at a time, shining light on Malawi, Africa.
What does Electricity mean for the Rural Villages of Malawi, Africa?
Without electricity the villages must rely on daylight to accomplish all their daily tasks and chores. Currently when the sun goes down the village goes to sleep. Electricity will increase productiveness and lengthen their days. School children will be able to study for exams past sunset. Village meetings in the Community Development Center can be held in the evening hours. Introducing electricity to each of the villages participating in the Africa Bags project will empower people of all ages!
How you can help
It is simple, DONATE $5 today to Enlightening Malawi and help spread the word! I am asking for just $5. That is equivalent to just one cup of coffee from Starbucks. While that $5 isn’t much here in America, $5 can help change someone’s life over in Malawi! Donate online through the Africa Bags Store or checks can be made out to Africa Bags and mailed to 235 Hopkins Court, Loveland, CO, 80537. Thank you for helping to make my dream a reality!
