Two years after MAF Tech and partners brought solar power to Telefomin, locals share what having green energy in their homes means to them.
Story by MAF Technologies, Kowara Bell
Mothers, fathers and school children in rural communities have seen a dramatic improvement in their well-being after MAF Technologies and partner, UNOPS, distributed solar kits for 108 homes back in 2022.
Situated in the northern heartland of Papua New Guinea, Telefomin district is encompassed by enormous mountain ranges and a multitude of rivers and creeks scattering villages and tribes from the outside world.
Metuk Rotie, a mother of four from one of the communities, recalls that before receiving these solar housing kits, she struggled to do basic family chores, especially at night, when having only a wood-fuelled fire as a source of light.
''The solar kit supplied to us has made a big difference in our life, particularly at night. As a mother of four, I can do my responsibilities at home, while the kids can finish their assignments and schooling at night for the first time,’’ she said.
“I am grateful that this solar light has made our lives easier in such a remote place.”
High school student, Staffa Asuneng, has noticed a significant improvement in her academic grades as a result of the new source of light.
‘'In the past, I was unable to study at home due to inadequate lighting. But now that we've got solar lights, I have been able to do my studies, which has helped me attain high marks, and I would want to thank those who provided us with these lights,’’ Staffa said.
Lanete Setie, a single mother of two, says the solar lights have enabled her to sew clothing even at night and sell them to pay for her children's school fees.
‘’This light has helped me prepare meals for my children at night and I can now sew clothing for ladies and children. I am very grateful for such initiative that has helped me as a widow mother in my community,’’ Lanete said.
Moreng Goiary, the District Community Development Officer, expressed his sincere gratitude to MAF Technologies and UNOPS for such a remarkable effort that has benefited Telefomin communities.
‘’There are all sorts of development, and solar distribution is one of them. The project itself is successful and it has fulfilled the needs of the communities,’’ he said.
“On behalf of the communities, I would like to commend the team of UNOPS and MAF Technologies who have distributed the solar kits and those who have funded the project as well.”
Moreng reminded the locals that a project like this is unique because not all remote communities are fortunate enough to have a free solar home kit provided to each home.
‘’You were not asked to pay a price to acquire these solar home kits because they were delivered to each of you for free, that is a blessing for us.’’
The project was initiated by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and administered by UNOPS, with MAF Technologies serving as the contractor to distribute and install solar kits in Telefomin's six selected communities.
The villages were, Bogalmin, Misinmin, Bilso, Atempkiakmin, Tolax, and Similbin.
Most of our children were blessed with the opportunity to study at night under these solar lights and enabling our mothers and wives to sit at night and weave their [bilums] traditional bags..
The initiative is part of the broader PNG Electrification Partnership, which aims to connect 70% of the population to power by 2030.
Simon Markham, a community representative and local church pastor, said, "As a pastor, this has helped me prepare my sermons prior to the church service, and I am grateful for these lights.
‘’Most of our children were blessed with the opportunity to study at night under these solar lights and enabling our mothers and wives to sit at night and weave their [bilums] traditional bags while preparing dinner for their family.
‘’I thank God for this, because Ecclesiastes 3:1-16 says that everything happens in God's time, and we acknowledge God for using MAF and UNOPS to bring such service into our communities, and we are grateful that the lights are still operational after two years of use.’’
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