Join us to Light Up Futures in Nairobi, Kenya
A chance encounter at the Nairobi airport sparked a meaningful initiative that is bringing light to homes in the Maasai Mara region of Kenya. When Warren Stickney met a Maasai guide at the airport, their connection led to an enriching journey through the African wilderness and ultimately to a project that would impact an entire community.
The guide, drawing from his tribe’s knowledge of the land, showed Warren areas of the Maasai Mara where visitors rarely venture, providing intimate views of lions, cheetahs, and other wildlife. During this journey, Warren visited the guide’s village, located six hours east of Nairobi, where approximately 50 traditional homes stand, built from mud and cow dung.
In the village, most families relied on burning coal and sticks for evening light. Only two homes had solar panels installed. With the local school situated two miles away, children faced significant challenges studying after dark. This observation inspired Warren to take action.
Warren purchased solar panels for the community and worked with his Maasai guide to develop a practical system for their delivery and installation. Each panel costs $120, and to date, 18 of the 50 homes have received installations. The guide, acting as the local facilitator, coordinates the collection of panels during his trips to Nairobi and oversees their transportation back to the village.
At just $120 per solar panel, this grassroots initiative shows how a modest investment can transform lives through sustainable technology. The total cost to light up all remaining homes in the village would be less than $4,000. This project demonstrates that meaningful change doesn’t require massive resources or complex organizations; sometimes all it takes is a connection with a local community and the willingness to take that first step.
- 18 Out of 50 Houses Lit 18%
