Impact Stories
Illuminating Hope: The Transformative Impact of Powerbox 200 in Rural Ethiopia
(The Story of Dida Durba, Bati Wako, and Kura Roba)
Number ofPBX-200s used
5
In the heart of the Ethiopian countryside, Dida Durba, Bati Wako, and Kura Roba, along with their community, have experienced a remarkable transformation over the past year, thanks to the introduction of the Powerbox 200, a solar-powered device that has brought light and opportunity to their lives.
Just under a year ago, these three entrepreneurs received the Powerbox 200, marking the beginning of a new chapter for their businesses and community. Before the arrival of the Powerbox, their hair salon operated with the constant hum of a generator, while others struggled with unemployment or operated businesses with inconsistent power sources like restaurants and coffee shops.
Dida, Bati, and Kura emphasize the drastic change in their financial situation. Previously, their income was dwarfed by expenses, leading to constant debt. Now, with the Powerbox 200, they have overcome this challenge and no longer need to make the arduous journey to Teltele weekly for charging.
The Powerbox 200 has become the lifeline for their businesses – from mobile charging to a hair salon and renting out speakers for events. They even rent out 13 light bulbs at 100 birr per bulb per month, contributing not only to their income but also providing much-needed illumination in their community.
Beyond economic benefits, the Powerbox 200 has become a catalyst for education in the community. With three Powerbox areas and dedicated study sections, students now have a reliable place to read and study, ensuring they can keep up with their education.
The entrepreneurs, who manage five Powerbox 200 units – one in the hair salon and two in charging stations – praise the device for its ease of use and maintenance. Despite occasional power shortages during rainy days, the product has proven efficient and cost-effective. The entrepreneurs express their satisfaction, highlighting its user-friendly nature and the absence of additional maintenance costs.
Conclusion
Powerbox-200 serves as a catalyst for positive change and sustainable development.
Testimonials underscore the device’s transformative impact on lives and community.
Demonstrates the potential for renewable energy solutions to drive economic empowerment and enhance livelihoods in rural areas.
Dida, Bati, and Kura share personal insights into their family situations. Dida, with two wives and six children, has four dependents. Bati, with one husband and one child, supports six dependents. Kura, with one wife and seven children, has two dependents. Additionally, Infone, not married and a member of the qero community, lives with his mother and five siblings, totaling seven dependents.
In their collective effort to empower their community, they contribute 12,500 birr monthly to Caritas, aligning with their expansion plans to pay off debts and cover expenses. Looking forward, their vision includes purchasing a refrigerator once debts are settled, further demonstrating their commitment to the Powerbox 200 as a catalyst for positive change and sustainable growth in rural Ethiopia.