Shirango Community Conservancy, located along the southern boundary of Tsavo East National Park, is primarily home to historically marginalized Watha Community and the other neighboring communities. The communities face significant challenges, including high poverty rates, frequent human-wildlife conflicts, and limited access to education and essential services such as clean water and reliable energy source for lighting. These issues profoundly impact their daily lives. In response, Tsavo Trust takes on a stewardship role, implementing innovative solutions that benefit both local communities and wildlife conservation, creating a sustainable future for all.
With no connection to the national electricity grid, many households in Shirango relied on fire for lighting, while others used basic portable spotlights. Recognizing the urgent need for reliable and clean energy sources, Tsavo Trust, in partnership with USAID and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), provided home solar solutions to 46 households, directly benefiting over 500 community members.
Each home solar solution includes a solar panel, a battery with charging ports, three energy-efficient bulbs, and a floodlight with a discharge time of eight hours, empowering families with clean and dependable energy for essential activities like lighting and charging devices. The impact of this initiative has been profound.
Photo 1: Rael Kiribae’s children study at home on 30th October 2024, benefiting from the home solar solution that provides them with reliable lighting for their educational pursuits
“The home solar solution has transformed our lives,” says Rael Kiribae, her face glowing with joy. “Before, everything stopped at sunset. We couldn’t afford kerosene or basic solar lights. Now with a home solar solution, our home is filled with reliable light every evening. My children can study well into the night, and I’m already seeing their school performance improve.”
Christine Furaha adds, “With the home solar solution, I now save Kenya Shillings 2,100 every month—money I used to spend on Pay-as-You-Go solar kits. Those savings go toward my children’s school fees, ensuring they can stay in school without interruption.”
These home solar solutions significantly improve families’ quality of life while fostering coexistence between people and wildlife. With access to reliable energy, over 200 students can now study at home, and local communities are able to save money, paving the way for a brighter future filled with opportunities.
Photo 2: Rael Kiribae’s homestead, once shrouded in darkness at sunset, now beams with light, showcasing the life-changing impact of sustainable lighting energy on 30th October 2024
This initiative underscores the vital intersection of community empowerment and wildlife conservation. By providing access to reliable and clean energy, we foster a sustainable lifestyle while protecting the rich biodiversity of the greater Tsavo ecosystem.
Join us in our mission to safeguard biodiversity and empower communities. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of both people and wildlife. Visit our website to learn more about our initiatives and follow us on social media to stay updated on our journey toward a brighter future.
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