The orphanage located in Mwambwakanthu village in Lilongwe, provides a safe home for 18 children and daily care, education, and meals for 47 more. Beyond supporting vulnerable children, it also serves the surrounding community in various ways.
Project summary
The need
Clean water was a critical necessity for both the orphanage and the surrounding community. The scarcity of clean water posed severe health risks, particularly during disease outbreaks. Limited water access made hygiene maintenance difficult, increasing the spread of preventable illnesses. The need for a reliable water source became even more urgent during the Covid-19 and Cholera pandemics when handwashing and sanitation were essential in preventing infections.
The solution
To address the challanges, we implemented a 1.08 kWp photovoltaic solar system to power a DC water pump with a maximum capacity of 15 cubic meters per day. The system pumps water into a 2.000 liter storage tank, which supplies taps at the orphanage and an additional tap for the community.
Impact
The solar-powered water system has improved the daily lives of both the orphanage children and the residents of the surrounding community. With reliable access to clean water, the orphanage can now provide safe drinking water, improved hygiene, and better sanitation. The ability to wash hands regularly has played a crucial role in preventing the spread of diseases, especially during the Covid-19 and Cholera outbreaks. This project has not only enhanced the well-being of the children but also fostered a healthier environment for the entire community. The Projects contributes to SDGs 4, 6 and 7.
Impact story
Brighter future for Streetwise Orphanage
“This system has given us access to clean drinking water, improved hygiene, and a reliable way to limit the spread of COVID-19. The children at the orphanage are healthier and happier, and the water system provides a small but stable income to support our work. Thanks to our partners and donors, this project has brought vital access to water, transforming…”