Since 2021, we’ve given solar lamps to over 1,000 marginalised families in Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Malawi. Thanks to donations at Christmas 2025, this year we delivered 179 lamps in Uganda, 83 in Zambia, and have recently sent funds for more lamps in Malawi.
“Before receiving the solar lamp, I found it difficult to read at night because the kerosene lamp was dim and we could not always afford fuel. Now I can study every evening, complete my homework, and prepare well for school.”
*Sadiki is one of 72 children in Soroti, north-eastern Uganda, to have received a solar lamp this year. He attends Soroti Secondary School, where he is a keen student, currently in S2 (UK equivalent Year 9). However, studying at home was difficult. The solar lamp has made a huge difference.
Sadiki says he can now study every evening for up to three hours, compared to no more than an hour with kerosene on those occasions his family could afford fuel. His eyes used to hurt in the dim light, but the bright solar lamp stopped his eye strain. Now his homework is always done, and he feels he is making faster progress.
Sadiki told our local partners: “I am very happy because the lamp has helped me improve my learning.”
Sadiki’s story has been replicated many times over. Our Soroti partners say: “Solar lamps provide an affordable, safe and sustainable solution that supports children’s education, household safety and improved livelihoods. Thank you so much for your involvement in this initiative.”
In addition to the 72 lamps distributed in Soroti, 47 lamps were distributed to families in Kazo, a slum area in Kampala, and a further 60 lamps in Rukungiri, in the rural southwest.
*Jendyose, who lives in Kazo, Kampala, will take important Primary Leaving Exams later this year. She says her new solar lamp helps her revise in the evenings, improves her early mornings as she gets up in the dark, and makes it safer and easier to use the bathroom at night, which is in a makeshift shack about 10 metres from her house.
Our team in Kampala write: “The solar lamp distribution programme has greatly improved the quality of life for vulnerable families. We are grateful to all partners and donors who made this possible. Your continued support is transforming lives and creating brighter futures for vulnerable children and their families.”
Why Solar?
Many families in poverty have no source of light after sunset. Others rely on kerosene lamps, especially in rural areas. But kerosene emits high levels of dangerous black carbon, causing lung diseases. It creates fuel costs which families cannot easily afford and is also a fire hazard.
In contrast, solar lamps provide cleaner, greener, safer light, without running costs. They protect health, promote wellbeing and prevent environmental damage. That’s what we call impact!
You can donate a solar lamp to a child in poverty for just £19. Find out more here
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