Following the recent instability of ESCOM (Electricty Supply Corporation of Malawi – The Malawian electricity supply company) the power situation at Ruarwe health centre has become very insecure, which is a problem, especially for managing emergency patients overnight. A small solar backup set with 4 lights was in place, but this wasn’t a sufficient circuit to light all the necessary rooms and spaces at the clinic.
Phunzira, through NYM, has donated a second solar backup light circuit with 4 additional lights to ensure a good light source in times of ESCOM black-outs. Both circuits also have the ability to charge one device at a time via USB connection, meaning that during the day, when the sun is bright, staff can also charge their mobile phones to be able to remain in contact with their superiors in Nkhata Bay, as well as manage research and reporting all of which is done online through mobile phones.
We hope that this additional backup system will resolve the power issues currently faced at the clinic, to keep patients safe and the staff well connected.
Phunzira 