Economic Growth Nepal Project #28780

Bring Light to Isolated Villagers in Nepal

by Karuna-Shechen

Summary

Many villagers in remote Nepal have no electric sources and rely on kerosene lamps and wood fires that pose fire and health hazards. Household solar electric systems are a simple solution. They provide clean electricity and opportunity for women to be bearers of light in their communities. With your help Karuna-Shechen will train and empower women to install 104 solar home lighting systems in isolated villages.

$17,166
total goal

$10,523
remaining

63
donors

0
monthly donors

5
years

Challenge

Nepal has a very poor infrastructure and most Nepalese villages in remote areas are disconnected from electricity sources. Villagers are living in relative darkness, lacking the means to safely light their homes. The use of kerosene lamps is commonplace and results in poor air quality, dangerous conditions, and environmental damage. Mothers who spend hours indoors preparing meals and tending to household chores, and children doing their homework by dim kerosene light, are the main victims.

Solution

Karuna-Shechen's innovative solution is simple. With your support we can provide local village women with comprehensive solar technician training in Kathmandu. Upon their return they will install solar lighting systems for 104 households in need, thereby benefiting over 500 people. The women will also serve as the village solar experts and entrepreneurs, sustaining the program for years to come. Increased support = we can train more women, supply more systems, benefit more families.

Long-Term Impact

Because individual households will be equipped with a clean, safe source of electricity, the quality of life of the village as a whole will be improved. Women within the village will have new economic opportunities and be empowered to serve as models for other women and girls to achieve an education and help lead progress. Health and wellness will increase as the air quality improves, and the environmental harm caused by kerosene will be replaced by environmentally-friendly practices.