They now have an opportunity to improve on their school work after a donation of solar powered lighting by Fireworks, a Stellenbosch-based organisation. The organisation successfully piloted this initiative in 40 households at informal settlements in Stellenbosch and Paarl, Western Cape and five households in Alexandra earlier this year.
Hundreds of people at this former market live in squalid conditions and rely on candles and paraffin stoves for lighting, to prepare meals and for warmth in winter. Incidents of shack fires are commonly reportedly in the area due to dangerous handling and placement of lighted candles and paraffin stoves.
The donation which costs R600 per unit consists of a solar panel, extension cord, inverter with multiple sockets for a light, phone charger and other small gadgets.
Carl Kritzinger, founder member of Fireworks said, “We developed the initiative to alleviate the plight of marginalised communities through something that is tangible and provides immediate benefits. Lighting is a basic need in any home.
“This initiative illuminates rooms better than candles and paraffin stoves and assists pupils and students in informal settlements to improve their learning through home study at night. Also, it will charge their cellphones in the safety of their homes.”
The initiative is a partnership with Emergency Management Services and Tswaranang Environmental Pro-Re-Active Safety Mentors of RSA, an NGO which promotes education and environmental awareness in four Gauteng municipalities.
Tswaranang’s CEO Joe Baleka said, “It will promote the health and safety of poor households, in turn improving their dignity and quality of life.
