It's been a while since I've chimed in with a personal update. Things have been busy at Empower Inc with us welcoming a new Director for Marketing (Nick Psaila), managing progress with Empower Malawi and scoping prospects for project expansion in Sri Lanka. I've been in Sri Lanka for 4 weeks to accelerate partnership development and community selection (I'm off to Malawi next week, more on that soon!).
Shyamika and I have been in Sri Lanka throughout December but our visits across the island have been seperate journeys. This has worked out well as we've been able to pursue different leads. Shyamika spent a great deal of time in the East while my visit focused on the North of the island. We've both been keen to get first-hand experience of the conditions faced by recently resettled communities in Northern and Eastern Sri Lanka. For those unfamiliar with the Civil War in Sri Lanka -This Wiki will help give you context.
My time in Colombo involved meeting with like-minded organisations like Sarvodaya and SEEDO as well as contacts new and old. Both organisations appear keen to work in collaboration with us and have strikingly similar values. I touched base with Dinah and Arun - passionate youth workers who organized my community visits in the North. I also had the pleasure of making my trip to the North with my former colleagues Florian, Daniela and Thushara - we worked on relief projects in Sri Lanka post-tsunami.This was my first visit to Northern Sri Lanka, in fact I never thought I'd see the day that I'd be able to visit the areas that I did. It was a long drive (10hours) made enjoyable but fantastic company.
Needless to say it was a bittersweet experience. Seeing the devastation and knowing of the tragic loss of life in the region while still appreciating the beauty of the land and the incredible resilliance and optimism in the hearts of many survivors. I was able to visit two large communities that had been recently resettled after having lived in IDP Camps through the final phases of the war and its immediate aftermath. Both were located in Mullaitivu District
1) Vishvamadhu (Theravil - 130 households)
2) Karnan Kudiyirippu ( 90 households)
A typical scene in Mulaitivu - Recently resettled civilans from IDP camps.
Conditions in both camps were strikingly simmilar. Upon resttlement, each household gets 1 1/2 acres of land, a grant of Rs. 20,000 (approx AUD 175) and roofing sheets. Needless to say, the structures (some over a year old) are only a slight improvement upon conditions in IDP camps. Most families have little in terms of a capital base to start over, have few able bodied family members for labour and are still disillusioned and traumatized. One needs to keep in mind that many families in these areas were not in financial poverty prior to the war. Many had houses and large plots of land.
In terms of conditions, with the exception of a few households, none had access to energy (a few had leased solar panels). Water access is not a pressing issue due to an extensive network of wells. That said, the North has an extended dry period and these communities have no effective water management system to harvest and utilize water for both consumption and agriculture. A natural candidate for some permaculture work!
The theme across both communities appears to be that of a lack of consistent income. Most households rely on physical labour to generate subsistence income (households run by widows and the elderly are at a huge disadvantage). There seemed to be a genuine interest in increasing household income through small to medium scale businesses and co-op/community banking.
A widow and her son speak with us in Karnan Kudiyirippu
Of course, we were aware from the start that working in Northern Sri lanka would be a great challenge. The psychoglogical impact of the 30 year struggle is obvious - loss of family, childhood and a sense of place being a highly simplistic encapsulation on my part. The vacant gaze of a widow, seemingly struggling to salvage hope and her son, fearful of our presence, had a profound impact on me. There is no doubt that any part of our work in this region would involve a great deal of work on the psycho-social elements of addressing trauma and building a sense of community- a shift from a paradigm of survival.
In discussion with the Grama Sewaka and Village Committee in Karnan Kudiyirippu
Our discussion with the community in Karnan Kudiyirippu was definitely a highlght. While conditions are similar to those with the community in Theravil, we were highly impressed by both the attitude and composition of their leadership committee. A progressive attitude and a seemingly determined approach towards being self-reliant was highly encouraging. Furthermore, young women were in key leadership positions in the community, a rare thing to encounter in a rural context. Dinah and Arun, the youth workers who organized our visits will be basing themselves in this very same area for 2 years (relocating from Colombo) in order to be of service to the community. They expressed that they were keen to assist us in their capacity as they believed in our values and our approach.
For these reasons, our team reached the consensus that Karnan Kudiyirippu would form our first recommendation as a potential partner community for Empower's foray into Sri Lanka.
The customary group photo!
Next Steps
In addition to potential partners Shyamika has touched base with in the North and East, we are currently in the process of sharing our concept note for "Empower Sri Lanka" with as many local organisations as possible. We are keen to develop a holistic network of partner organisations as we are doing in Malawi.
Identifying the necessary government clearance required, formalization of partnerships and an official initial assessment of the community through a joint-partner visit are obvious next steps on the road ahead. We are extremely excited and you can count on us updating you all on how this project develops from concept to implementation. If you are interested in supporting our efforts in Sri Lanka, please get in touch!
It's no secret that the Empower Tribe loves permaculture and all it stands for! We are also keen on exploring ways in which we can really live our values. In addition to measures and approaches in our project model, we also look at ways in which we can be more sustainable as an organisation and as individuals.
So we decided to pick someone's backyard and make it productive! Admittedly it's hard getting all our busy volunteers together but we thought it was a great start to what I'm sure will become a tradition in terms of meaningful and productive team-building!
We picked James' backyard for our first project. As you can see below , its a significant space and there was nothing happening apart from some weeds and a very artsy water feature! Our plan was to make it a productive herb and vegetable garden for James and his family. A simple starting point that could lead to bigger, better and ofcourse...tastier things.
We started off by doing some sheet mulching. Using old newspaper to cover the garden space after allocating small pathways to allow for easy access after planting. This layer of newspaper serves as a weed blocker and also retains soil moisture before breaking down over time. Basically, it helps build soil health and gives us some control over what we want to grow. We want to maximize how much of that goodness in the soil goes to our plants :)
James's dog "Happy" was having a ball, lapping up the attention and much to our concern...some of the compost! Next we added a soil layer - a mixture of potting mix, leaves, cow manure and blood and bone. This is all organic and great for the soil and the plants we're looking to grow! Notice that we didn't dig around. This is because this is a no-dig garden bed, one that looks to minimize disruption to the soil system. This is also why we allocated small pathways so James and his family avoid trampling the beds, this compacts soil and tends to disturb or kill beneficial critters.
Almost there! After this, we add a thick layer of sugar cane mulch. This is to prevent erosion, protect seedlings from the wind and most of all, retain moisture. All these layers allow the soil to serve as a much better ecosystem for millions of beneficial microorganisms that a chemical approach would often harm.
Done! Not too shabby if I do say so myself. We were mighty pleased with our efforts. We planted lettuce, tomatoes, eggplant, chilli, basil, corrander, mint, beetroot and a few strawberries as well. The marigolds in the picture are pretty and functional as they attract beneficial insects and repel nematodes. We also planted some beans in another section of the garden. A great starting point , James already has plans for some fruit trees :)
This spot gets great sunlight throughout the year and if it's well-maintained, it should significantly reduce the family's vege bill and their carbon footprint!
We spent the rest of the afternoon watching "The Economics of Happiness", recommended viewing for those interested in multiple perspectives on the globalizaton vs. localisation debate. Michelle also shared some useful tips on how we can shift behaviours and purchase decisions to be more sustainable.
Overall, a fantastic team exercise. We look forward to larger, more ambitious projects in the future!
We decided to have a chat with Sharini Samarakoon, one of our key volunteers at Empower Inc about her latest project.
Hi Sharini! So what's "Dream, Act, Change" all about?
Dream, Act, Change is Charity Art Exhibition that will be supporting Empower Inc's project in Malawi. In addition, this event will be showcasing art in an eclectic range of forms from paintings and photography to music and dance.
It is also an opportunity for these upcoming artists to display their talents and for attendees to support the local arts scene.
What inspired you to organize this event?
Displaying my art has been a dream of mine since I was 8 years old, and yet it has taken 16 years for it to become a reality.
I think the title of the exhibition says it all! Beside it being the vision set out for Empower, it has become my own philosophy in life. This is… if you can dream it, then you are able to make it a reality. However, the choice to do so relies on your passion, determination and commitment to see it through.
Humanity inspires me. To put it into perspective, witnessing the commitment of those in such challenging conditions towards transforming their lives is an inspiration. It lead me to realize that achieving my own potential is within my reach.
Do you see a role for art (in its various forms) in a community development context?
I do, and I hope to actually focus on this on a full time basis in the years to come. I am a huge fan of street art. As artists express themselves with no price tag, but purely on being able to convey a message and allow the public to enjoy art instead of a privileged few.
I think the true beauty of art and the fact that there is such an appeal to it is because it is a universal expression of creativity and is so open to interpretation. We are all story tellers in some shape or form, and art is the platform which best displays this side of humanity. I feel self-expression is something that is so vitally important for everyone. It helps to builds confidence and inspires others.
This ability to build self confidenc,e I feel, is heightened in a community development context. I will be doing an art project with the kids in Malawi. Where I hope to enable them to express themselves and paint a mural on their school walls at Kapita Primary School. I’m very excited about it and hope the kids will thoroughly enjoy the process and be proud of their achievement. I feel that a visual testament to their journey as a community will be a powerful cohesive force.
The funding for this project will come from the donations provided by those attending the exhibition. I feel this is a very symbolic link!
What are your hopes for the event and what's next?!
First and foremost I hope who attend the exhibition thoroughly enjoy themselves! Second, I hope that all those performing and expressing themselves get the recognition they deserve. Personally I feel that just the process of having this exhibition has been thoroughly rewarding.
Abundant Water Inc. is a not-for-profit organisation committed to enabling access to clean drinking water by sharing the innovation of clay-pot water filters (CPWF) with indigenous potters in the Lao PDR and other communities. Incorporated in Canberra, Australia; Abundant Water (AW) has rallied young volunteers from every continent in the cause of developing and transferring CPWF technology to communities in need of potable water.
The AW project integrates basic water filtration technology (a concept proven in ANU research) with local Lao potting techniques. These simple ceramic water filters are made by local potters using natural materials and potting techniques and are able to eliminate waterborne diseases such as dysentery, gastro-enteritis, cholera and typhoid that are endemic to many rural villages. This approach is developing local capability and ownership and transferring (and sharing) knowledge and expertise rather than transplanting (or donating) alien systems, technologies and money.
The generosity and enthusiasm of volunteers has enabled AW to develop into an international organisation with an ‘open-source’ structure that conducts fieldwork in Lao PDR and overseas in collaboration with like-minded partners. The ‘open-source’ nature of AW means we are interested in partnership, not ownership. Thus the organization, technological innovation and development model are being freely shared with other like-minded organizations so that the AW project can be replicated elsewhere. This has resulted in interest from every continent.
Why does Abundant Water exist?
One sixth of the world’s population does not have access to clean drinking water and up to 80% of all sickness in the developing world is caused by a lack of potable water and inadequate sanitation. The removal of water-borne pathogens by ceramic water filters can prevent much of this illness. High-tech solutions have proved to be unsuitable for production and use in developing countries, especially in rural and remote communities as they are unable to afford and maintain expensive hi-tech water filter systems. For these communities the most appropriate solution is a decentralised low-tech system that draws on their traditions and is congruent with their beliefs.
Abundant Water directly meets this need by working side by side with villagers in sharing the CPWF innovation, introducing testing and quality control and facilitating the return of potters as micro-financed businesses to their communities This new cottage industry not only introduces CPWF’s to the village but also begins to educate the community about clean water, sanitation and hygiene.
Progress so far...
The Abundant Water project began in July 2008 with a modest grant from Canberra Rotary for Sunny Forsyth to start a pilot-project introducing the CPWF to Lao potters. An open source organization was formed to facilitate technical development and administration of the pilot project on a shoestring budget. The Abundant Water website was created to connect the growing legion of volunteers becoming involved in the project. Abundant Water Inc. was incorporated in Canberra, Australia and a Management Board established with expertise across a range of disciplines to ensure sound governance of the project and organization.
A team in Lao PDR, consisting of an experienced potter, translator and testing labs, was recruited to begin developmental work. The potter was introduced to the technology and once she had produced a viable filter cup began to adapt it to more traditional Lao forms. Tests at the Lao Government Laboratories concluded the pots were viable water filters. The team experimented with firing regimes and flow rates to develop a domestic filter suited to the local requirements. These filters were tested and the water was certified as safe by the Institute of Food Research Laboratories, Kasetsart University in Bangkok. In this process the AW team in Vientiane took the original pot through 6 iterations to arrive at the current unique Lao form. This form evolved from a pot to a cylindrical filter that has increased the flow-rate tenfold. It is now being trialed in villages throughout Lao PDR. A training compound has been established on the outskirts of Vientiane to enable the training of potters and the continuation of development and experimentation. The training compound has also developed a unique kiln that draws on Lao traditions to provide reliable raku firing with readily available fuel.
Who is involved?
We believe in partnership not ownership. Consequently, we have a growing list of partners who are not only contributing to the project but are also collaborating in the CPWF innovation and implementation. Abundant Water is also developing partnerships with businesses enabling the rollout of the CPWF innovation to villages throughout Laos.
Rotary Canberra provided seed-funding and Engineers Without Borders is providing technical assistance. In Lao PDR we partner with Global Development Group on our ‘project’ – J623N Abundant Water – to train potters in making CPWF’s. They provides governance and administrative support for the project. Local support and the understanding of working conditions in Lao PDR is provided by our local partners, Community Development and Environment Association (CDEA). CDEA are also testing and monitoring the use of the filters in the villages and will be training the village potters in enterprise and micro-financed business.
Get Involved
The Abundant Water project is made possible by the generosity of individuals and organizations just like yourself. Whatever your skills or resourcces, they will be highly valued in AW Inc and you will be joining a vibrant and highly motivated community.
Abundant Water Inc relies entirely on the funds raised by our community. Our organization is managed by volunteers allowing almost all funds to be spent in the field in Lao PDR for the potters’ training, translators, testing and pilot-project management. All donations over $2 to this Global Development Group approved aid and development project J623N Abundant Water are tax deductible in Australia & the USA. Our needs are modest and thus whatever you contribute will be significant and make a difference. We ask businesses committed to ‘corporate social responsibility’ to consider partnering our GDG project G623N Abundant Water.
Abundant Water Inc is realising the promise of the clay-pot water filter. Check out www.abundantwater.org and join in and become a part of the Abundant Water community. You have the skills and resources to progress the Abundant Water project.
It's been a while since we've published a post but don't let that mislead you, we've been super busy! We have a whole string of updates on the horizon but I will start with what's happening on the ground right now.
Our project team in Malawi - comprising of our very own Jones Ntaukira (Empower Malawi), Grivin Kili (BEED) and Lieza du Preez (Permaculture consultant) are in Zatuba Village as we speak! They will be focusing on three main goals.
1. Pilot Community Bank
BEED successfully completed their extensive business development workshop with Zatuba Village in June. Up to 40 entrepreneurs took park in this 9 day program which ended with the development of detailed business plans for their proposed enteprises. 23 participants graduated with "Certificates of Attendance" while 9 entrepreneurs were awarded "Certificates in SME (Small and Medium Enterprise) Management".
These 9 entrepeneurs will form the core team for our 3 month community bank pilot. Why a community bank? The community identified the need for access to capital and we all agreed that a self-run financial system would enable the Zatuba Village and surrounding communities to be truly self reliant. The 9 entrepreneurs have proposed a range of businesses (e.g. dairy, poultry, groceries, maize) and were selected based on their the strength of their businesses plans and their social/environmental impact. There is a blend of individual and group enterprises.
BEED is currently facilitating the creation of a community bank account to be managed by the Village Development Committee (VDC) which will also act as the "Loans Committee" in this 3 month pilot. Empower will invest up to $AUD 4,000 into a revolving fund that will be supervised by BEED. All recovered funds from the Solar Lantern project will be directed to this fund as well.
2 week loan turnarounds are expected and there will be no interest charged during this pilot. BEED's team will be visiting every 3 weeks to conduct pit stops to evaluate the health of the fund and the businesses being supported. We end the pilot in late October and expect to make a collective decision with regards to whether a full-fledged community bank is a viable and desirable option for Zatuba Village.
We are really excited as access to finance is one of our key pillars as an organisation. I can't wait to see how things unfold as I have great faith in the community's ability and determination. I long to see the fruits of their collective labour in January!
Community members after a Training Workshop - Chief Zatuba (seated)
2. Permaculture Design in Kapita Primary School
Our permaculture consultant Lieza du Preez will be conducting a 5 day Permaculture Awareness program at Kapita Primary School. While the focus is on children being empowered to design a more sustainable and beautiful school, adults will take part as well. Participants will learn about a range of topics such as sustainable design, water harvesting, nurturing soil and plants (particularly medicinal plants). The key deliverable is for the school children to develop an action plan across 2 rainy seasons that will be supervised by Lieza and her team by means of check-ins every 2-3 months. We can't wait to see the plan the children draw up to make their school more sustainable!
3. Clay Pot Filters
Our partnership with Abundant Water is moving into action phase. Sunny Forsyth has provided us with a checklist for local potters to assess their ability to produce low-cost claypot water filters to service the areas need for water purification. Jones will be discussing this checklist with two local potters and determine their interest in producing water filters as a social enterprise. We are about to receive an introductory video from Sunny's team and will facilitate a technology transfer through a series of videos if there is strong interest.
The team will also be educating the community on the transmission of Malaria and gaging the best course of action to combat infection. Our discussions thus far have lead to a two-pronged approach - treated nets and mosquito repelling plants (local basil, lemon grass, marigold etc). We shall keep you posted on this project when we develop a clear action plan with the community.
So....plenty happening! Stay tuned for our team's update within the next 2 weeks :)
The last 6 months have flown but you all have consistently been in my thoughts. Our team in Australia is kept up to date on our upcoming collaborations, your energy and enthusiasm. We are deeply encouraged by this and are excited that the project is moving into the implementation of key initiatives that are in line with your vision. Being able to visit Malawi after 15 years was a truly moving experience. It was beautiful to be amongst you all and experience your warm hospitality. I sincerely look forward to spending more time with you all in January 2012.
As I was walking home this morning, I found myself reflecting on the essence of what we do as an organisation, the heart of this collaboration with your community across 5 years. To me this journey is about the actioning of a deep realization about ourselves, that we are ...from the youngest to the oldest...capable beyond measure. That your community is considered poor and deprived only by those ignorant of a deeper truth. For you have a network of strong relationships to support each other, you have vision, you have trust, you have respect and a deep connection with the abundant earth. The so called rich and developed nations that we so often look to imitate...tend to lack these vital aspects and hunger for what you have right now. So many discontent and unfulfilled despite the appearance of having so much. I urge you all to reflect on the riches you have amongst you and challenge the notion of imitating a western ideal of development. You have an opportunity to avoid their mistakes and misfortunes on your journey towards abundance.
In light of all this I have come to sense that poverty is not a matter of money, it is not simply a lack of anything material like water, electricity or healthcare. They are merely the surface. From where I stand today, I feel that real poverty is a lack of self belief, a lack of love for ourselves and our immense capacity as human beings to address anything we desire. I have sensed and continue to sense this in myself; I feel its ache and the joyous release that comes from this realisation. I know not if this resonates with you but I felt the need to share. Our roles, the roles of brothers and sisters like Jones, Collen, Grivin and Lieza are to serve as mirrors, the reflective surface of a river in which you see the splendour of your own capability for yourselves.
A close friend of mine reminded me of an observation in nature. That of a butterfly’s struggle in the cocoon prior to glorious flight. It undergoes an immense struggle to break free of the cocoon, a struggle for freedom. The tendency for us to want to ease this sign of suffering is high, as an act of apparent compassion. Yet the reality is that rescuing the butterfly from this struggle would kill it. The struggle allows blood to flow into its wings and strengthen them for flight. Without it the butterfly would be paralysed and unable to move. Thus it’s a beautiful, necessary effort that allows it to unfurl its beauty and savour freedom in this world. I see this as being so similar to our partnership with your community. We are not here to rescue or ease apparent suffering; we are here to strengthen your wings so that you have the freedom to fly in the directions you choose together.
Our commitment is towards enabling your leadership as well providing access to knowledge and resources that you need on this journey. Our passion lies in being able to enable you all to create the community you desire, as opposed to one that is imposed on you by others.
Our collective dream is that in 4 ½ years from now, you are able to create a strong and loving community that is self-reliant. One in which every child, woman and man can have a dream, have the space to share it and bring that possibility to life. One in which everyone is heard, nurtured and able to contribute.
My dream is to sit with you 4 ½ years from now. Not as a foreigner, a superior or an expert but as a fellow brother. A guest in your community being told of the great achievements you have brought to life through collaboration. To feel the joy of not being needed ...but instead being wanted as a witness to your creations. For you all to raise your hearts and hands in the spirit of contribution to your wider community, to your nation and to fellow brothers and sisters across the world. For while you may not see it right now, you are beacons of possibility for the world and generations yet to come. For by taking power into your own hands today, you are enabling others to do the same.
I am honoured to be on this journey with you all and look forward to seeing you all soon.
Team Empower is taking part in the Sydney Half Marathon once again! Our team is bigger this year and we're looking to generate support for our project in Malawi while challenging ourselves. We are training hard :)
Funds will go towards a community bank, entrepreneur training, a permaculture garden and supporting our project coordinator (Jones).
If you are taking part and would like to join us, just click on "Join Team" and enter "empower2011" as the password. Select "Empower" as your cause and you are good to go.
If you aren't taking part, you could give us a real boost by making a donation and spreading the word!
Our visit to Malawi was a real eye opener. Life comes to a standstill after 6-7pm, many having no recourse apart from sleep. As it stands, opportunities for social interaction, work or studying are (pardon the pun) dim. Zatuba Village's residents resort to burning straw or using kerosene lamps and torches to make it through the darkness. As we experienced ourselves, these options are not only ineffective, they are very expensive.
Part of our mission while in Malawi was to demonstrate the potential of solar lanterns to the community and secure an affordable supply. This proved to be a real challenge as the most cost-effective unit available at the time was priced at AUD 44 . Fortunately, we have since purchased a comparable, cheaper alternative -- d.light's S10 - Kiran (featured below). The unit costs AUD 24, making it a much more affordable option for the community. We hope to finalise logistics within March and collect desposits for those interested, the payback period is 6 months (coinciding with harvest time).
So what is the impact? What are the tangible benefits of rural villages like Zatuba purchasing Solar Lanterns?
Cost Savings
Villagers in Zatuba spend at least AUD 3-4 per month on kerosene and batteries for torches. This does not factor in the transportation and time costs of regular purchase. Upon repayment within 6 months, households will enjoy significant cost-savings through the elimination of a reliance of fossil fuels and dry cells. Replacement costs are generally low and units are covered by a 1 year warranty.
Work, Study, Meet
Up to 8 hours of lighting (4 on high, 8 on standard) mean that residents can work on micro-enterprises or extend hours for household functions during the night. This would reduce time pressures on women in particular. Trends seem to indicate that access to lighting significantly increases productivity and thus income.
The community can also organise gatherings late in the evening or at night when more residents can attend.
Children are able to attend to school work without being constrained by poor lighting conditions.Thus reducing the time pressures around household chores and school work.
Health and Safety
Poor lighting options such as kerosene lamps, torches and burning straw leads to poor eye sight. Kerosene lamps are notorious health and safety hazards - suffocating smoke, burns and fires. A serious issue in rural villages across the world - an estimated 1.5 million deaths a year!
Furthermore, solar lighting can create community safety. Lanterns are portable can be hung at night and light up village pathways. This is particularly relevant to women and young children; the village was pitch black after 7pm.
Reduced Carbon Emissions
It is estimated that a single kerosene lamp produces up to 1 ton of Carbon Dioxide over a 5 year span. Solar lighting is a carbon neutral alternative that would see the village reducing its impact on the environment through the use of sustainable technology. As I see it, they are leap frogging the unsustainable practices of the so called modern cities we live in!
Community Independence
This is an untested theory :) Yet having observed the enthusiasm and solidarity amongst the villagers, I suspect that having their independent source of power for lighting, paid for by themselves (not a charitable handout) should be a great source of pride. It is our hope that this would be in line with our desire to respect the dignity of people in all we do.
We intend for the lights to go on in Zatuba Village in March! A big thank you to all our supporters for making all of this happen :)
First and foremost, I have to apologise for the rather large delay in sending this out to everyone. While our time in Africa was amazing, I had the misfortune of contracting a serious strain of Malaria along the way. I only felt the impact when I got back to Sydney and it's been a very challenging month as I relapsed after my initial treatment. The good news is that I'm back on my feet and keen to share our experience as well as work with everyone to map out a year of action.
I'll strive to make this a snappy, picture-filled update so that you have the cliffnotes of our journey.
Zatuba Village
Our visit to Zatuba Village was intense! It was a 2 hour drive from Mzuzu town, through many muddy dirt tracks. The closest major town is 50kms from the village. We hit the ground running after a warm welcome from the community as we had a raft of activities to put into action!
a) Baseline Survey
We conducted extensive household level surveys in order to get a deeper understanding of household conditions in the village. We managed to complete 20 interviews and the balance 17 will be handled shortly. This information will also help us track the impact of the project. Some of the key findings were that :
- A number of households do not enjoy 12 months of food security (need to purchase or barter).
- Households use torches, lamps or bundles of straw for lighting with energy costs avg. $ 4-5 per month.
- Tobacco and Maize (Corn) are the lifeblood of the community - though the market for the former is declining.
- The vast majority do not purify their water before consumption.
- All households use 3 stone stoves and firewood for cooking (they emit high volumes of thick smoke).
- Most adults in each household are literate.
- Most were in favour of group/community businesses..
- Very few residents use banking facilities and most have a positive attitude towards loans (being in debt).
- They feel a lack of access to capital is a major impediment to the development of micro-enterprise in their community.
- Groceries, Juice-making, Poultry farming, Bee Keeping and Second-hand clothing are some of the popular suggestions for businesses.
( Our volunteer Jones conducting a baseline survey interview - each one took an hour!)
b) Introduction to Business - Workshop for Entrepreneurs
One of the main objectives of our project visit was to impart a message of "self-reliance" and our business workshop had a big part in that. Hats off to Shyamika, Shashika and Belinda for putting the manual together!
With 9 modules spread across 3 days - we had an average of 40 adults in attendance on each day! James and I ran some modules while Titus (Mzuzu University) and Jones translated. We ran all our sessions in a little shed, it was perfect for the occasion! The community enjoyed our involvement and our attempts to greet them in Tumbukka. The workshop focused on the qualities of an entrepreneur, the responsibilities involved in running a business and tools to critically evaluate a business idea.
The workshop modules were highly interactive with group work and role plays that both the men and women really enjoyed - all of the role plays were truly entertaining! While Jones is still compiling official feedback from the workshop, the general feedback was that it was extremely useful (there was a lot of diligent note-taking). Their enthusiasm was evidenced by the fact that they stayed on till 8-9pm on two days - they usually sleep by 7-8pm.
(An entertaining business roleplay in action)
c) Solar Lantern Demonstration
While we have raised sufficient funds to distribute Solar Lanterns philanthropically, this practice would be damaging and go against our ethos. Thus we sought to demonstrate this versatile lighting solution to the community and offer the package on loan. We purchased 5 units from a SolarAid entrepreneur - she sells Solar Aid's "Sunny Munny" units for a living. For those who are less tech savvy, the solar lantern consists of the following :
a) A small rectangular console with a switch and light indicators for charging/charged. Standard rechargeable batteries fit in the back.
b) An LED bulb - this energy efficient bulb connects into the console via a wire - they are colour coded and fit one way.
c) A Solar Panel - a little panel that fits into the console via a color coded wire. This is kept outdoors and works in both direct and diffuse sunlight throughout the day.
d) A universal mobile charger - This is a valuable extra that plugs into the console. It can charge a whole range of mobile phone batteries.
These units are simple to use and provide 6-8 hours of lighting on a full charge. We offered to make these units available at MKW 6,500 with a 50% deposit and the balance payable over 9 months (under $42 in total) . We are currently in discussions with Barefoot Power to make an identical unit available to the community at a price 20-30% lower - fingers crossed!
We ran through the usage of the lanterns and were able to demonstrate the tangible benefits. The women cooking our food used the light as they cooked and more importantly, our workshops were able to go until 9 pm thanks to the lanterns. In a community that is pitch black after 6pm, it is easy to understand the enthusiasm towards owning such a unit. We have asked the community to list the interested households and we will make lanterns available to those able to cover the initial deposit.
(Solar lanterns in action)
c) Design for Change - Encouraging children to be change makers
This was another part of our activity list that I was particularly passionate about. "Design for Change" is a global change initiative pioneered by Riverside School in India. The purpose being to give children the opportunity to connect with an issue in their community that they can take action to solve/alleviate. Children are often left out of development initiatives and labelled as being "future leaders" without being given a role in the current context.
Over a 100 children were in attendance and our timeline was condensed, we had only 3 days for the program as opposed to an ideal 5-6. Children from adjoining villages also participated, as Kapita Primary School services the entire area. The children took to the task immediately and came up with an impressive list of issues and possible initiatives in their respective groups. Sanitation seemed to be the biggest commonality between groups and ultimately the children decided on improving cleanliness and sanitation at their school. Given the compressed timeline, they committed to weaving basket bins and sweeping their school the next day and to commence work on pit latrines the next week!
(Children with the bin baskets they wove and brooms made from branches)
I was able to have detailed discussions with the headmasters from the school. They are convinced that such a program will have a huge impact on surrounding communities by mobilising children with the entrepreneurial spirit. They are keen to make it a regular feature in their school activity list each term. We rewarded the children with a football and volleyball after they demonstrated their hard work.
Meetings with Partners
We met with both the University Administration team (Deputy Vice Chancellor, Director of Finance...) as well as the Project Technical Team at Mzuzu University. The conversations revolved around the nature of our partnership and the need to draft a clear memorandum of understanding (MOU). We openly discussed issues faced to date, primarily centered on slow communications at the Malawi end. We also discussed arrangements for the solar lanterns and the project visit.
It was encouraging to confirm that we have high-level support and enthusiasm from the University with regard to the project, though the administration team would like to see more detail in terms of a project plan. We explained the organic nature of our model (community vision) and that we'd be working on a log-frame shortly. The main concern raised by both teams was with regard to the delivery of micro-finance as they feel they lack the know-how and experience. We proposed that we'd look into the creation of community-run banking that would minimize liability and micro-management by the university team.
We expect to sign an MOU with Mzuzu University's Energy Studies Dept in the near future.
(Meeting at the Energy Studies Dept - Collen Zalengera making a point with pen in hand)
We met with McDonald from Care & Support Network in Lilongwe. We discussed how we could collaborate to provide Zatuba Village with access to Solar Cookers (both Foil-based and Parabolic). We concluded that starting with foil-based solutions (Under $7) would be more cost-effective and can be supplemented by training the community on the construction of energy saving stoves during the rainy season. We will work towards implementation in April-May.
(L-R - McDonald, myself, Jones)
We met with Grivin from BEED, a social enterprise that focuses on capacity building for rural entrepreneurs. They have worked with many established NGOs such as the Hunger Project. Our discussions focused on how we can offer micro-credit to the community through the formation of a village bank. Grivin expressed great faith in the success of such a model and feels that his organisation has the experience to make this happen. The main impediment being food security in the community. We all agreed on the need to fast-track interventions to incorporate permaculture and develop a community food bank before the development of a community bank.
The Road Forward
The biggest shift in direction seems to be in regards to the delivery of microfinance. James and I noticed that MFI's in Malawi tend to have quite a notorious reputation for high interest rates, rather extreme measures for debt collection and a fixation on dense urban areas. The difficulty in finding suitable partners coupled with the apprehension of the university in dealing directly with loan logistics has left us with quite a challenge. However, it is one we believe we can tackle together, with some trust and creative thinking.
James and myself feel strongly about the development on in-village banking, a community managed fund that would take the logistical and management concerns away from the project team. Of course, this would involve placing considerable faith in the community - and I think this is what we're about, and is ultimately what is more sustainable, as we have no interest in being a commercial banking operation. Our meeting with BEED was a big nod to the idea of community banking, an area in which they have had previous experience with the Hunger Project.
- We are curently compiling baseline information that we obtained during the project visit.
- We'll be coordinating with the Project Team in Malawi to develop a log frame for the project so that we can have a clear set of objectives and activities.
- At present the priority is to get Jones trained with a Permaculture certificate so we can initiate training sessions with the community to improve their agricultural practices and address food security. This will be an investment that we can carry on to future projects as well.
- Business education services will continue through BEED to complement the foundation we have laid. Future sessions will likely involve an affordable fee for participation in order to address project sustainability.
- The village will soon confirm the formation of a Village Development Committee that comprises of Men, Women and Youth. This committee will be responsible for project administration and their first task is to manage the Solar Lantern purchase process.
- Investment in a community poultry business seems to be the most likely way forward as it is by far the most popular suggestion for collaboration. We will have to work to establish the true costs and technical requirements of enabling this possibility.
It's been an amazing year for Empower and on a personal front. I can't think of a better way of savoring this year than by spending time in Malawi and seeing the impact of our collective efforts.
James and I will be meeting with the local project team to address project planning, impact measurement and implementation. We will be meeting with partner organizations such as Solar Aid (Solar Lanterns), Care & Support (Solar Lanterns) and BEED ( entrepreneur development).
We will be spending a minimum of 4 days in Zatuba Village (Dec 6th-10th) and we look to implement three key activities.
1)Solar Lanterns - Covering the upfront cost for 35 households. Each will repay approx $4 per month (equivalent to current kerosene costs) for a year to ensure cost-recovery and community ownership.
2) Introduction to Microenterprise development - A manual developed by Empower, delivered by the local project team. This will focus on introducing Zatuba's entrepreneurs to the realities of micro business and basic business principles to screen business ideas. We will focus on practical role plays and pilot projects to transfer core learnings.
3) Design for Change - This simple but intuitive program developed in India is targeted towards enabling children to be changemakers. We will be focusing on children in the local school between 7-14.
The program involves getting children to "feel" towards a community problem that bothers them, "imagine" a solution they can implement in a week, "do" to bring about change and finally "share" the impact. I am very excited to see what the children come up with. We believe this will encourage children to connect with their own capacity change with internal resources.
Beyond this we intend to bond with the community,develop mutual trust and most importantly listen to their aspirations and challenges. It will be a pivotal experience for James and myself to actually live amongst the people we serve.
We hope to transcend the "us and them" complex that tends to surround such projects and focus on discussing the creation of a new reality for the community as opposed to addressing "lacks"'or "deficiencies". As we see it, we are partners.
On a personal front, It's been 15 years since i have returned to Malawi. This is the realization of two dreams - one being to return to the place of my childhood and the other being to make a meaningful impact. It's early days but it's so gratifying to be on this journey.
We hope to spare some time to soak in some of the local culture, scenery and wildlife. We are particularly interested in Nyika National Park, Likomo Island and Mt.Mulanje.
James and I will report on our adventures! We look forward to sharing this journey with all our friends and supporters.
Thanks to everyone who contributed towards making this happen.
Light Up Malawi is a venture to bring 100% alternative energy to the country of Malawi through policy reform and the creation of a sanctioned pilot program for all manufacturers of solar, biomass, and wind energy products.
We will use business, government and design to make a concerted difference in one basic need in Malawi. Manufacturers get a break on tariffs, get to participate in a sanctioned high profile program and villagers without power get an energy source at low cost or no cost and get to speak up about the products they find most useful.
Energy access is one step out of the poverty cycle and this dual pronged effort can help people and prevent further environmental damage. This is a coalition, of many ideas to take one nation off the grid.
Here's a compilation of interviews and footage from our Team Empower's City2Surf Campaign. Our team fundraised for Empower's project in Malawi. An initiative to enable entrepreneurs in Zatuba Village (35 households) to build a self-reliant communities. A massive thank you to our whole team and all our supporters! Thanks for making a difference :)
Shanil Samarakoon talks about his motivation for starting the organisation and his ambitions moving into the future.
How did Empower begin?
Empower started as a university project in 2007. I had the idea of a rural electrification project in Sri Lanka – I suggested it to fellow students and there was a lot of interest. The designing and fundraising led to us form a not for profit organisation.
What inspired you originally?
I was involved with relief efforts after the Tsunami in Sri Lanka (2004) and since then I've been passionate about working with developing communities on a social level. Connecting with these impoverished and disempowered people gave me a new sense of purpose.
How did the experience change your perspective?
I started to see that the so called "poor" were just lacking opportunities and resources that we take for granted. I saw that poverty was more than a lack of economic wealth. I think it has more to do with a loss of hope and losing belief in ability.
When we’re confronted with images of poverty in the media it’s easy to feel despondent. Mentally, how were you able to take your experience and translate it into action?
The experience pushed me to reflect on how I could contribute toward change. My dream is to be able to create social and environmental impact as a full-time commitment. Now that I've finished my Masters, I’m ready to take on the challenge.
What sets Empower apart from other aid organisations?
I always had a passion for social business models that were financially sustainable. From my experience in Sri Lanka, I saw how charity can actually deepen dependency and disempower. Empower is not a charity – we want to build financially sustainable models that benefit stakeholders and communities in the long term.
In what way do you think charity can deepen dependency?
Pure charity often addresses the surface issues as being a “lack of” something as opposed to enabling people to mobilise their assets and abilities to help themselves.
What are your short term goals for Empower?
Firstly, to raise $30,000 (AUD) for our project in Malawi by early 2011. At the same time, we’re looking to develop and finance technology solutions for Zatuba Village, our pilot project in Malawi.
What are your long term goals?
To secure additional investments into our projects based on the performance of our pilot project. We aim to have on ground operations in Southern Africa within five years, which I plan to manage personally. We’d like to expand our reach into multiple communities within five to ten years.
Can you tell me about the structure of Empower and the role of volunteers?
Empower has a simple organisational structure. We have a board of three directors, including myself, that is supported by an advisory board of two. We have ten volunteers who cover roles including administration, events, marketing and communications.
Our volunteers are mostly university students from a range of backgrounds. Hopefully, every volunteer can gain useful and meaningful work experience that can improve their ability to deliver professional results.
Given that Empower’s purpose is not to create profit, how do you plan to keep the company afloat?
In our startup phase we’ll rely on donors believing in our ability to deliver results. There will need to be an element of faith, through investing support in our pilot project. This will be a huge learning experience before expanding into larger scale projects.
Long term, our micro-finance model and earnings from carbon credits (through use of renewable energy) will fund our operations. We will gradually expand our reach if the pilot model is performing well and move away from funding via grants and donations.
What would be a key indicator of Empower’s success?
Previously dependent communities that achieve self-reliance. Our definition of self-reliance involves enabling access to energy and clean water, food security, improving household income, health, sanitation and access to education.
Another key indicator would be our ability to maintain a project portfolio whilst being financial sustainable. In other words, our funding will be generated through our own activities and not exclusively through charitable sources.
Looking specifically at your current project in Malawi, in what way is the community of Zatuba Village dependent and how would Empower help the community to achieve self-reliance?
The community lacks access to electricity (they use firewood and kerosene) and running water and have no access to rural finance to fund income generating activities. We’re wary of making assumptions about the community’s capabilities, aspirations and needs until they communicate them to us directly through the mobilisation process, starting next month.
Welcome to our new blog! We aim for this space to be a hub for knowledge sharing on sustainability and for updates on our projects. We have contributors signed up and we'll be live very soon. Thanks for your patience.
