Caritas

In Danisa Karkaro kebele, Medawolabu woreda, Borana, a group of friends led by Ramadan and Abdulbari were struggling. Subsistence farming, their main source of income, left them vulnerable during the harsh droughts that plagued the region. Then, a beacon of hope arrived: Caritas Switzerland offered a 50% subsidy for a new solar technology called Powerblox (PBX). Seizing the opportunity, they formed a micro and small enterprise (MSE) and their lives were never the same.

Gone were the days of uncertainty. With four Powerblox (PBX) units humming with life, they transformed not just their own lives, but the lives of their community. Their business focused on two things: mobile and electronic device charging, and renting light power units to neighboring households for a flat monthly fee of 100 birr each.

“We’ve seen cheap solar products before,” Abdulbari admitted, “but they never lasted. Two months, tops. This one? Eight months and running flawlessly. It’s a game-changer.”

This reliable source of clean energy proved to be a lifeline, especially for the family of a deceased member. His widow, defying tradition in a male-dominated society, continued their involvement in the business, ensuring a brighter future for her children.

On a busy market day, their mobile charging station buzzes with activity, servicing up to 50 phones. Even on slower days, at least 16 phones receive a much-needed power boost. Their success story has spread, attracting not just customers, but also the attention of the entire community. This MSE isn’t just a business; it’s a testament to the power of reliable, renewable energy to transform lives. They are not just surviving; they are inspiring others to find new ways to thrive, even in the face of adversity.

For forty years, Danisa primary school in Medawolabu woreda, Ethiopia, stood in the shadow of its own potential. Darkness shrouded the classrooms, hindering education and snuffing out dreams. Then came 2024, and a ray of sunshine brighter than any the students had ever seen – Powerblox (PBX), a solar technology subsidized by Caritas Switzerland. Four units arrived, and with them, a complete metamorphosis.

Imagine a school transformed. No longer a place of hushed voices and limited resources, Danisa bloomed into a vibrant hub of learning. Teachers, once restricted by the lack of electricity, now embrace laptops and printers, their lessons illuminated by the federal curriculum’s latest resources. The library, once a quiet space during the day, now pulsates with activity after school as students delve into its expanded resources.

The most dramatic change might be in the eyes of the students themselves. Gone are the days of long commutes that dimmed their motivation. The school now pulsates with a magnetic energy – multimedia presentations showcasing hidden talents, evening sports played under a floodlit sky, and educational programs on DSTV that broaden their horizons beyond their rural community.

This transformation isn’t confined to the classroom walls. Mr. Ebisa, the school director, can finally ditch the expensive trips to the city. His laptop and printer, powered by the sun, allow him to generate reports and participate in virtual meetings with ease. The community has noticed too. Adults, inspired by the school’s vibrancy, are signing up for evening classes, basking in the light of knowledge and the convenience of mobile charging stations. Plans to rent out power to far-off households might be on hold, but adults who once learned under trees in distant locations now flock to Danisa for a more enriching experience.

But Danisa’s ambitions reach far beyond academics. It has become a beacon for the community. Government offices and religious institutions hold events within its walls, leveraging the reliable Wi-Fi, charging facilities, and power supply. Even with other schools nearby, Danisa’s innovative use of the PBX system makes it the preferred venue for staff meetings and planning sessions.

The future burns bright at Danisa. An ICT program is on the horizon, promising to empower both students and the community. Refrigerators hum with cool drinks, sports facilities beckon energetic youth, and the promise of a soft drink adds a touch of sweetness to their exertions. Danisa Primary School is no longer just a place of learning; it’s a vibrant hub where education and recreation converge, a testament to the transformative power of embracing new technologies. From a school shrouded in darkness, Danisa has become a beacon of hope, illuminating not just its classrooms, but the future of the entire community

A group of friends led by Mr. Ramadan, Mr. Tahir, and Mr. Sultan in Medawolabu Woreda, Ethiopia, were initially skeptical about a new solar technology called Powerblox (PBX) subsidized by Caritas Switzerland. Their small commodity shops provided a living, but limited opportunities for growth. The high price of the PBX-200 units made them question the quality, having seen cheap, unreliable solar products before.

However, after careful consideration and witnessing the success of similar projects, they decided to take a chance. Their investment, matched by a 50% subsidy from Caritas Switzerland, marked a turning point.

The first step was a strategic merger. Their individual shops became branches under a single micro and small enterprise umbrella. But the most significant change came in the form of diversified revenue streams:

Mobile Oasis: Gone are the days of limited charging options. Their shops now offer a vital service – charging mobile phones and other electronic devices for the community.

Light Power Rentals: Neighboring households can now rent light power units, extending the reach of reliable electricity.

The impact extends far beyond the shops’ walls. The success of the venture has translated into improved lives for the partners and their families. Access to food, clothing, and education has improved, and a new addition to their homes has brought joy and knowledge – televisions.

“We can now stay informed and entertained,” shared Mr. Tahir. “Our children are learning more about the world outside our community.”

The extended shop hours, fueled by reliable Powerblox (PBX) power, have fostered a new social dynamic. People gather in the evenings, transforming the area into a vibrant hub. This micro-enterprise haven’t gone it alone. Collaborating with Rabla, Tayiba, and Munisa’s cafe and breakfast house, Bidimo school, and the local mosque, they’ve created a thriving center of activity, open for business and socializing well into the night.

Eight months in, the initial skepticism surrounding the Powerblox (200) has vanished. The system’s reliability and affordability have not only proven their worth but have also fueled the success of Mr. Ramadan, Mr. Tahir, Mr. Sultan, and their associates. This innovative approach to solar power is illuminating not just their shops, but their lives and the future of their community.

Bidimo primary school in Hora Kore kebele, Medawolabu woreda, Ethiopia, is leading by example. This school of 925 students (512 male and 413 female) has harnessed the power of innovation to transform the learning experience.

Previously, the school relied on a noisy and expensive generator for electricity. Frequent use was impractical due to the high cost of fuel (650 birr per liter) and the additional burden of travel to the woreda for maintenance. In fact, generator use was limited to a maximum of four times per month, at a cost of around 3,000 birr for fuel and maintenance.

The arrival of five, 200-watt Powerblox (PBX) solar units marked a turning point. These units provide reliable, clean energy, enabling teachers to utilize laptops and printers for improved lesson preparation.

But Bidimo isn’t just illuminating the classroom; they’re illuminating the path to a sustainable future. Through a series of innovative initiatives, the school is generating additional income to support its educational mission:

• Community power sharing: The school rents out light power units to 10 neighboring households for a monthly fee of 100 birr each, fostering a connection with the community while providing a valuable service.
• Mobile charging hub: Students, teachers, and community members can keep their devices charged with the school’s convenient mobile charging service (10 birr per charge).
• Local business partnerships: Two local businesses, a mobile maintenance shop and a DSTV house, rent electricity from the school for a combined monthly fee of 500 birr.

The revenue generated through these initiatives allows Bidimo to allocate funds towards essential educational materials like paper and printer ink. Previously, trips to the Woreda for printing were a necessity, adding further strain on resources.

The positive impact extends beyond finances. The reduced reliance on noisy generators creates a quieter learning environment for students and the surrounding community. Furthermore, with reliable electricity, the school plans to implement ICT (Information and Communication Technology) practical classes for grades 7 and 8. They also anticipate a rise in demand for adult learning programs and evening sessions – a testament to the transformative power of this innovative approach.

Bidimo primary school is a shining example of how resourcefulness and embracing new technologies can illuminate the path towards a brighter future for education and the community.

A remarkable cafe and breakfast service blossomed in just six months within Medawolabu woreda, Borana, Ethiopia. This family-run business, led by Mrs. Rabla, Mrs. Tayba, Mrs. Munisa, and their close friends, is more than just about delicious food; it’s a story of empowerment, family, and the transformative power of innovation.

Previously reliant on seasonal subsistence farming, which barely sustained their families, their lives changed dramatically with the arrival of the Powerblox (PBX) solar technology, obtained through Caritas Switzerland with a 50% subsidy. Four strategically placed PBX units illuminated not just their establishment but their vision for the future.

Reliable electricity empowered them to open three branches simultaneously, each offering a welcoming ambiance and a variety of services: a core cafe and breakfast service, mobile charging stations for customer convenience, barber shops fulfilling a community need, and even DSTV services transforming the cafes into vibrant social hubs.

Their ambition didn’t stop there. Recognizing an opportunity to diversify income and benefit the community, the women rented out light power units to a nearby shop and 18 households, extending the reach of reliable electricity.

This story transcends business success. Driven by a desire to build a legacy for their 17 children combined, Mrs. Rabla, Mrs. Tayba, and Mrs. Munisa have created a true family enterprise. Their husbands, traditionally focused on seasonal farming, have joined the venture during the off-season, and to meet growing demand, they’ve hired three unemployed youths, fostering opportunity within the community.

The cafe, a beacon of activity in the evenings, draws crowds and creates a lively atmosphere. This family-run business is a testament to collaboration, resourcefulness, and the unwavering dedication to securing a brighter future for generations to come. These women aren’t just building a business empire; they are illuminating the path for their families and their community.

Twelve years ago, Dibe Gaya health center in Teltele woreda, Ethiopia, opened its doors to serve the community of 16,492.  Focusing on children, elders, and expectant mothers, the center faced a constant challenge – keeping the lights on.

“Before, it was a struggle,” admitted Mr. Zakir Wayo, the center’s director.  Generators hummed, spewing fumes and gobbling up fuel.  Essential services like emergency care, surgery, and delivery rooms were shrouded in darkness whenever the fuel ran out, jeopardizing the health of the most vulnerable.  The cost was high, both financially (averaging 10,000 ETB a month for fuel) and environmentally.

Then came a ray of hope – Caritas Switzerland and their Powerblox (PBX) solar technology.  With three 200-watt units installed, Dibe Gaya was transformed.  Night became day within the center’s walls.  The laboratory bustled with activity, emergency cases were handled efficiently, and mothers received the critical antenatal care they needed, all under the gentle glow of solar power.

But the impact goes beyond treatment rooms. The entire compound is bathed in light, ensuring the safety of patients and staff alike. Mobile phones, lifelines for communication, can now be charged consistently.  Printers hum, keeping vital records readily available.  Most importantly, extended working hours allow the center to provide even better quality care.

Dibe Gaya health center is a beacon of hope, powered by the sun, ensuring a healthier future for the entire community.

For over a decade, the Kulcha health center in Kulcha kebele, Ethiopia, has served as a vital resource for over 31,000 people. However, keeping the lights on, especially at night, was a constant challenge. Imagine delivering a baby by unreliable light or relying on a costly and noisy diesel generator – a hefty 70,000 Ethiopian birr a quarter to be exact. This was the reality for the dedicated staff before Caritas Switzerland introduced the Powerblox (PBX) system.

Within just six months, four Powerblox (PBX) units brought a dramatic change. No more struggling with inadequate lighting. Reliable electricity enabled the center to offer life-saving 24-hour laboratory service. Previously serving a maximum of 50 patients daily, the lab can now handle 150 patients around the clock.

The benefits extend far beyond nighttime operations. Medical staff now have access to the internet for professional updates, allowing them to stay current on best practices. Additionally, the ability to charge phones, print medical reports, and support outlying health posts with hard copies of reports has significantly improved efficiency. Even a simple television in the reception area helps keep waiting patients entertained.

Powerblox (PBX) is more than just a lighting solution; it’s a game-changer. It provides reliable power for lights, refrigerators, printers, and sterilization machines, ensuring a clean environment. Importantly, it’s a cost-effective solution, freeing up resources to focus on delivering quality healthcare.

The Kulcha health center management sees Powerblox not just as a solution, but as an investment in the future. Expanding their energy capacity means reaching even more people, solidifying their role as a central pillar of health and well-being in their community.

Life was pretty bleak for Amanuel Kusiya and his community in Teltele woreda, Borana.  Upon graduating, Amanuel found himself jobless, despite being talented and willing to work.  To make matters worst, his village had little access to electricity making even something like his phone,  a useless brick. “… connecting with friends was a struggle,” says Amanuel. Charging his phone meant a trek to a distant town, a constant drain on time and resources. This frustration fueled a dream – a solar-powered internet business that would bridge the information gap he himself experienced.

Then came a spark of hope – the Powerblox (PBX), a solar innovation that arrived like a knight in shining armor. Over the past eight months, Amanuel and his community, the Charika Mini Grid Micro and Small Enterprise, have transformed from survivors to change-makers.

The PBX-200 wasn’t just another solar product. For Amanuel and his community, primarily cattle herders and farmers, it was a revelation. “This is the first time witnessing a quality product, which changed their and their family lives and the community lifestyle quickly and at this level,” says someone involved. This high-quality technology wasn’t just lighting homes; it was illuminating a path towards a brighter future.

Today, Amanuel and his team are an important beating heart for their community. Their business provides lighting to three restaurants and 35 households, their mobile charging service keeps everyone connected (averaging 20 charges a day!), and they’ve even installed a free streetlamp, turning their business area into a haven for evening gatherings.

The impact goes beyond convenience. With reliable electricity, Amanuel, Charika, and Kusiya (who collectively support 16 people) can finally dream of financial security. Gone are the days of selling assets just to survive. Now, they’re building emergency funds and planning for the future.

Being young in Borana, where its beauty is overshadowed by concurrent droughts and lack of opportunities, is often tough and can have devastating impact on your future prospects. This was the reality for, Kebede, Gulfa, Yando and Scahama. Each of them come from farming families and with the droughts and over 37 dependents under them, they often had to juggle different jobs.

So, when they discovered the Powerblox (PBX), it was an unexpected ray of sunshine.  The battery, allowed them to launch the “Gulufa, Sachama & Yando mobile charging MSE,” a micro-business that charged not just phones, but also powered a large portion of the town! They opened two branches, offering not only mobile charging but also a mini cinema, barbershop, and even printing services. Their MSE allowed for some business to grow from 26 weekly customers to 364, whilst giving them a steady income of 20,000 ETB.

But with great success comes growing pains. Customer demand boomed, and they worried their solar power wouldn’t handle it. They even used diesel generators on market days, which added to their fuel costs.  Despite these challenges,  they are planning to invest in more Powerblox (PBX) units. This will allow them to go to the next steps: buying refrigerators and selling cool drinks, something that is sorely needed due to the harsh weather in Borana. They’re no longer just surviving; they’re thriving, and their story shines bright!

Running a business without electricity is quite the challenge. Like Mr. Dida’s barber shop was on the brink due to the unreliable generator or Mrs. Bati who struggled to keep her coffee warm, her dreams simmering alongside her brew.  What seems like a daily convenience is a luxury  that whose absence can stifle potential.

Then came a spark of hope: Caritas Switzerland offered a 50% subsidy for a new solar technology called Powerblox (PBX).  Mr. Dida and Mrs. Bati, along with a few others, joined forces, transforming their struggles into a thriving Micro and Small Enterprise (MSE).

Their secret weapon? Five strategically placed Powerblox (PBX) units. The once-unreliable barber shop is now a haven of clean cuts and bright lights.  Mrs. Bati’s coffee simmers contentedly under the gentle hum of the solar panels.  But their reach extends beyond their shops.  They’ve become the village’s shining star, offering mobile phone charging, renting light bulbs to households for a modest 100 birr a month (13 households benefit already!), and even illuminating the path forward for the community’s children.

In their three business locations, they’ve carved out free study spaces, complete with late-evening lighting and complimentary Wi-Fi. This act of generosity, a rarity among MSEs in Ethiopia, highlights their commitment to giving back.

The impact extends beyond the shop walls.  Mr. Dida, with his two wives, six children, and four extended family members, can finally look to the future with confidence.  Mrs. Bati can better support her husband and child, along with their six relatives.  Mr. Kura finds solace in knowing his wife, seven children, and two extended family members are well cared for.  Even the youngest, Mr. Kiya, who lives with his mother and five siblings, feels a newfound security.

Initial reservations about the unfamiliar technology quickly vanished. The Powerblox (PBX) units have proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and require minimal maintenance.  Even occasional power shortages on foggy days are a minor inconvenience compared to the constant struggle they faced before.

With their initial investment covered by Caritas Switzerland’s subsidy, the group is already making monthly payments towards full ownership.  Debt-free, they dream big.  Refrigerators hum in their plans, promising cold drinks for the entire village.  This MSE, born from struggle and powered by the sun, is a beacon of hope, illuminating not just their shops, but the lives of their community.