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.