Chigubhu Lantern Initiative
Chihota, Zimbabwe
Zambezi Ark Technologies (Zartech), a youth-led social enterprise, is launching the Chigubhu Lantern Initiative to address the critical need for sustainable energy and lighting solutions in Zimbabwe. This initiative is working to provide reliable and sustainable lighting for schools and enhance the quality of education through improved lighting conditions. This project provides sufficient illumination for children in rural areas of Tanzania to do their school work after sunset. While striving to expand access to clean and affordable energy, this project is also equipping young people with practical skills to combat climate change.
The Chigubhu Lantern, a solar-powered light made from waste LED components and plastic bottles, offers a durable and eco-friendly lighting solution. By teaching students how to build these lanterns, the initiative imparts valuable skills in waste management, circular economy principles, and renewable energy. A central component of the project is the Chiedza Solar Kit, a custom-made solar power solution capable of charging multiple Chigubhu Lanterns simultaneously, as well as powering other devices like cell phones and laptops. Ultimately, the Chigubhu Lantern Initiative aims to ensure “A Light For Every Student ”and “A Light For Everyone” while promoting environmental sustainability. By fostering a culture of resourcefulness and innovation, the project seeks to create a brighter future for Zimbabwean rural communities.
With the help of a Purpose Earth grant, funding will be strategically allocated to support key components of the Chigubhu Lantern Initiative which will focus on 500 students across 5 schools. Through this funding, the project will be able to collect the essential components for the Chigubhu Lantern toolkits and the creation of comprehensive developer guides. These manuals will provide students with step-by-step instructions on lantern construction, waste management, circular economy principles, and renewable energy concepts. The grant will also support the purchase of necessary tools for lantern assembly and maintenance, which will be retained by schools for ongoing use. The grant will also finance the procurement of solar panels, batteries, and other essential components required for assembling Chiedza Solar Kits.
“The critical need for the Chigubhu Lantern Initiative is underscored by the stark reality of Zimbabwe's rural electrification challenge. With over 65% of the rural population lacking access to electricity, the educational sector has been disproportionately affected. Schools in these areas often operate without reliable power, hindering students' ability to study beyond daylight hours. The grant will be instrumental in scaling our impact and reaching more students in need of access to quality education and clean energy.” - Aluwaine Tanaka Manyonga, Project Lead
Mona Dance School
Community Livelihoods Rehabilitation Project
