Radio Education for Rural Girls in Kenya

Radio remains an important tool for rural areas. People often think that everyone in Africa already has a smartphone. This is not true.  The father or even the mother in a family might have a basic smartphone, however, that doesn't mean they can afford to buy data. In addition, connectivity is a common issue in rural areas. This is certainly the case in Narok County, Kenya, where the Esila project is most active. 

Young people, especially girls, in rural areas will not have access to a smartphone or access to the internet. Radio is essential for everyday information and education access. Many girls live in isolated homesteads and this is their only connection. 

According to feedback that we've gathered directly from those girls who received the Fenix radio-lights and from our local representative, the units have made a positive difference in their lives and the lives of their families. Because the Fenix is power-independent and doesn't require batteries, they can listen to weather reports and news updates at any time. The majority of the families are livestock keepers and they can listen to livestock programmes broadcast over the local language. 

Lifeline Energy receives ongoing and regular requests for additional Fenxi radio would be most grateful if you would help us support them. We plan on making an additional distribution before the 2024 school year ends, and we would greatly appreciate your support. 

NAROK COUNTY, KENYA

Disaster Strikes

From March to May, torrential rains and flash floods wreaked havoc across Kenya, causing rivers to overflow and triggering landslides. Narok County, home to the Esila project, was heavily impacted.

Impact on the Community

While the loss of life was lower compared to other regions, the damage was extensive. Countless livestock were lost, small businesses and schools were severely affected, and nearly all crops were destroyed.  Maasi are first and foremost livestock keepers and have only recently ventured into farming. 

Challenges in School Visits

We had planned to follow up with the schools that received our Fenix radio lights late last year. However, due to the severe flooding, many schools were either unreachable or closed, making our planned visits in May impractical to impossible.

Critical Role of Fenix Radio-Lights

Our local coordinator reported that the Fenix units proved invaluable to rural families during this crisis. With days passing without sunlight to power solar panels, the failsafe winder handle allowed families to stay informed with weather updates. These updates were crucial for accessing information on shelters and support services for displaced individuals and families.  Very few would have had any form of insurance.  Additionally, the LED flashlights provided much-needed light at after dark, ensuring people could navigate the darkness safely.

Unexpected Lifeline

When we distributed the Fenix units, we could not have anticipated their vital role during a disaster of this magnitude. These units became a lifeline, providing essential information and light to rural families affected by the prolonged crisis. We are planning to visit the schools and the girls who received the Fenix units later in the year.