Zebaldt Ngaruka
EPUKIRO – The installation of a solar lights’ system commenced in the Epukiro Post 3 settlement after the groundbreaking ceremony was held recently in the Omaheke region.
Epukiro constituency councillor Packey Pakarae told New Era that the solar lights’ system is an initiative from the constituency office aimed at not only reducing carbon emissions, but also helping in the sustainable development of the Epukiro community.
Pakarae said the N$660 000 project will include the hitchhiking shelters that will be built at all hiking points in one of the oldest settlements in the Omaheke region.
The councillor said the solar lighting system is an efficient and environment-friendly method of generating electrical energy using electrical sunlight as the primary energy source.
The solar system harvests solar energy through solar panels, and then converts it into electrical energy using specialised equipment, which powers integrated LED lamps for bulbs that provide illumination.
Solar lighting systems, Pakarae said, are modernly used in various applications such as sheet lights, security lights, remote area lighting and residential lighting.
The solar lighting system offers an advantage over conventional lighting systems, such as minimal maintenance and reduced energy cost.
On the construction of the hitchhiking shelters, the councillor said the idea was born out of helping the most vulnerable people in the community who do not have means of transport.
“It pains me when I see the most destitute people in my community, and I will always want to render support. It is about giving them the dignity they deserve to restore trust in the public offices,” Pakarae said.
“I am appealing to Epukiro residents to be the eyes and ears of their well-being by reporting any vandalism or theft incidents of these properties,” he said.
He added that the community that does not look after its interests will not be able to ensure progress and prosperity for the next generation.
The Epukiro settlement faces frequent power outages, and the solar lighting system will be a reliable source of power during power cuts.
New Era also spoke to some residents who expressed their satisfaction with the solar system lights in their area.
Chief among them is businessman Hiskia Tjatjitua, who said the system will change the image of the settlement.
“This is a welcomed development. It will bring changes as residents can walk freely at night on the main street. Those hiking at night can benefit from the shelters created, as lights will be on for 24 hours,” he said.
Mavemutjavi Murangi, a businesswoman, said the solar lights will help in instances of power outages in the settlement.
“We are experiencing frequent power outages and that hampers our business operations, especially at night. The safety of our customers and that of businesses will not be compromised any more,” she said.