BRinging the light

Safe heating and light for every family.

Mayamiko Trust has partnered with Sunny Money Malawi and Solar Aid to help bring light to communities in Malawi, starting from our immediate community in Chinsapo.

The problem

Over 600 million people in Africa do not have access to electricity. For lighting, their only choice is to rely on toxic kerosene, paraffin or candles. The billions being spent on improvements to extend the electricity grid don't make any difference to 91% of Africa’s rural population. Kerosene is costly and toxic: around 15% of a family's income is spent on lighting and using a kerosene lamp for a year is estimated to be similar to smoking 298 cigarettes. One lamp is estimated to emit a tonne of carbon over five years. The lack of proper lighting also impacts children’s ability to study, as it is too dim and causes a lot of strain on the eyes.

The SOLUTION

Off-grid solar lighting can provide a cost effective solution to this problem, without cause harm to health. Families save $70 a year, on average, after they buy a solar light; around 10% of household income. The money saved is spent on better food, school fees and business development or farming inputs. In order to help solve this energy problem and create long lasting opportunities, Mayamiko has embarked on a project to promote the use of solar power solutions through the sale and loan of affordable domestic-use solar energy products to women in semi rural areas around Lilongwe.

We have set up a revolving fund to support the initial investment of those willing to enter the reseller scheme, as well as individual buyers.

Solar education training coupled with our business training and the reseller scheme enable women to create their own business selling solar lights to other members of their community, while educating on the financial, health and environmental benefits of using solar power and the dangers of excessive deforestation.

5000

people now have access to clean, green lighting through our work

YOUR ENERGY USE

With developed countries responsible for 79% of historical carbon emissions, the UK per capita carbon footprint is currently around 80 times that of the average Malawian. You can sponsor a light to help us expand access to sustainable energy, while doing your bit to offset part of carbon footprint.

Want to make a bigger impact?

Help us get a solar agent up and running with stock, training and all that is needed to succeed. Not only will they bring the light to many marginalised communities, you’ll also be supporting entrepreneurs on their way to economic empowerment.

Access Bringing the Light resources

We have a simple infographic explaining the benefits of solar power over kerosene. You can access it via the Download Resources button. You can also visit the Learning Zone for more digital content.