Solar lights | ChildCare Malawi

PRACTICAL ASSISTANCE FOR DISADVANTAGED CHILDREN IN MALAWI AND THEIR FAMILIES

Solar lights

Depending on the time of year, there are between 11 and 13 hours of

darkness a day in Malawi. The only option for almost 90% of the population, who have no access to electricity, is to use potentially dangerous candles or kerosene lamps. Both cause burns and fires if they are accidentally knocked over, left unattended or placed too close to anything flammable. Working or reading by candlelight often results in eye strain and the health implications of inhaling the toxic fumes from kerosene lamps are known to include persistent coughs, dermatitis, respiratory and eye infections, and cataracts.

Even the smallest solar lights are twice as bright as kerosene lamps and they can be placed on a table or hung from a hook on the wall. Access to a safe, reliable source of light after dark makes it easier for children to do their homework, mothers to care for their babies and the elderly to avoid falls. In addition, entire families can benefit from a higher standard of living if they no longer have to pay for candles and kerosene, especially those headed by grandparents with responsibility for their grandchildren.

What you could do to help

Wheelchairs for children

★ A donation of £15.50 would cover the cost of three small solar lights.

About Malawi

★ A donation of £20.50 would cover the cost of one brighter multi-function device with a separate solar panel that can also be used as a torch and a mobile phone charger.

Access to education

Access to healthcare

Access to clean water