In April 2024, the home of Virginia Kamau (23) and her baby was swept away. The simply built corrugated metal huts in the Mathare slum in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, could not withstand the raging waters. The impacts of the climate crisis once again hit the poorest.
But the single mother was fortunate. As a participant in the «Solar Learning for Women» project, Virginia Kamau (see portrait below) reached out to our local partner organization. Thanks to the funds raised through a donation campaign, we were able to provide emergency aid for her and the other affected participants in our projects.
The flood came at an unfortunate time: «I don’t have enough money right now to raise my baby,» says Virginia Kamau. She decided during her pregnancy that she and her child would chart their own path. This is not easy, as women in Kenya are economically disadvantaged compared to men.
As a participant in the Solar Learning for Women project, Virginia Kamau seized her opportunity: She wants to become a solar technician. Earning her own money is an important step toward independence for the young mother.
Despite the challenging and often long days, Virginia Kamau loved the training: «I especially enjoy the practical training. I love wiring. I just feel good doing it,» she says with a smile.
Virginia Kamau has now passed the national exams and received her certificate as a solar technician. Next, she will begin her professional career.
As a solar technician, she wants to earn enough money to provide a better life for herself and her child. At the same time, she firmly believes that solar energy will play a significant role in the future of Kenya. The sun is reliably available, the energy to be won is consistent, and much cheaper than conventional electricity.
Update, September 2024: Virginia Kamau has passed the national exams and, right after her presentation at the graduation ceremony, received a job offer from a solar company!
Education is a unique opportunity for economically disadvantaged people in Kenya to break the cycle of poverty. Support us with your donation so that we can offer many more people the chance that Virginia Kamau seized. Will you join us?