In Zanzibar, “solar mamas” are local women trained by Barefoot College International to replace smoky kerosene lamps with solar power in off-grid villages. Many families relied on dim, harmful oil lamps until neighbours trained through the programme installed solar panels.
Barefoot College trains middle-aged women with little formal education to become solar technicians, giving each the skills and equipment to install and maintain at least 50 home systems. Over ten years, the programme has lit more than 1,800 homes and enabled graduates to become trainers.
The initiative also teaches basic health knowledge and promotes safer living by removing kerosene, which damages lungs, irritates eyes, and causes fires.
Though expanding across Africa, the programme faces funding cuts and resistance from communities where women technicians challenge traditional gender roles. Despite this, many “solar mamas” say their work now earns recognition and respect.
Bild ©️pexels.com
