Solar Energy for Hope Health Pharmacy 

Members:

Aichatou Djibrine, Fatna Hassan Mahamat, Amira Abakar Adoum, Rahma Youssouf Moussa, Mouna Ali Mahamat, Amina Idriss Déby, Zakia Hassan Idriss, Narguis Mahamat Saleh, Khadija Abderahmane Brahim, Hadjara Oumar Mahamat, Fadila Aboubacar Issa, Soumia Abdoulaye Ba, Mariam Mahamat Abakar, Aïcha Oumarou Souley, Fatoumata Amadou Issa, Ramatou Yacouba Oumarou, Bintou Mamadou Diallo, Kadidja Aboubacar Hassane, Hawa Idriss Mahamat, Dalila Abdoulaye Moussa

Email used by group: rahmabeju@gmail.com

Phone used by group:+223563221798 (tiogo) network 

What does humanism mean to your group?

(Rahma) Growing up in N'Djamena, I was taught to accept traditional roles: marrying young, having children, and managing the home. These practices were deeply ingrained in our culture, and many of us believed there was no other way. However, as we gained access to education, things began to change. With our newfound knowledge, many women started questioning the restrictions placed on us, inspired by humanism the idea that every individual deserves dignity, equality, and the freedom to make their own decisions. Through education and exposure to global movements on gender equality, we realized we didn’t have to accept outdated practices and could pursue education, careers, and their own paths without fear of judgment or punishment.

As social media and global movements for women's rights grew, we in N'Djamena found solidarity and strength in the stories of others challenging similar patriarchal structures. These stories inspired and empowered us, showing us that we were not alone in our desires for change. The more we shared our experiences and supported one another, the more we began to build a collective movement rooted in humanism. This journey of empowerment has been gradual, but as we embraced humanism, education, and global awareness, we rejected limiting traditions and started building a new vision of womanhood. It’s a vision where we are free to make our own choices, live with dignity, and pursue equality without being confined by the expectations of the past.

Project

Hope Health Pharmacy, located in N'Djamena, Chad, plays a critical role in serving the local community, particularly women who rely on its services for healthcare, medication, and essential supplies. However, the pharmacy faces significant challenges due to unreliable electricity, which impacts its ability to operate efficiently. Power outages and inconsistent electricity supply have disrupted the pharmacy’s ability to store medication properly, maintain refrigeration for sensitive medicines, and ensure the overall functionality of the pharmacy’s equipment. These issues have, in turn, affected the quality of service provided to the community and diminished the pharmacy’s ability to operate at full capacity.

In light of these challenges, this project proposes the installation of a solar energy system at Hope Health Pharmacy to provide a reliable and sustainable energy source. By harnessing the power of solar energy, the pharmacy will have a consistent electricity supply that is not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective. This will enable the pharmacy to improve its productivity, extend working hours, and ensure that services are available to the community without the constant threat of power disruptions. The solar energy system will allow the pharmacy to maintain proper storage for medications, refrigerate necessary items, and run all necessary equipment effectively, ultimately improving its operational efficiency. This project is particularly important for the women who work at the pharmacy and those who rely on its services, as it will enhance both their working conditions and access to essential healthcare. With the installation of solar energy, the pharmacy will be able to meet the needs of the community more effectively while also reducing operating costs, allowing for greater financial sustainability and increased service availability.

The installation of a solar energy system at Hope Health Pharmacy represents an important step toward improving healthcare access and operational efficiency in N'Djamena. By ensuring a reliable and sustainable power source, the pharmacy will be able to overcome the challenges posed by inconsistent electricity, leading to increased productivity, better service delivery, and greater satisfaction for the community, particularly the women who benefit from the pharmacy’s services. The cost savings from reduced reliance on grid electricity will allow the pharmacy to reallocate funds to other vital needs, further enhancing its ability to serve the community.

Moreover, this project aligns with the principles of humanism by promoting sustainability, autonomy, and empowerment. By using solar energy, the pharmacy will reduce its carbon footprint, contributing positively to environmental preservation. It will also create a more empowering work environment for women, both in the pharmacy and in the community, by improving their access to essential healthcare and providing them with more reliable services. The impact of this project extends beyond just providing energy; it is about fostering a more resilient, productive, and inclusive community where women can thrive, make informed decisions about their health, and live with dignity. Through this project, we are not only addressing immediate operational challenges but also investing in long-term solutions that empower the community and support the values of equality and human dignity.

Budget - $300 maximum (list all items needed and their cost, we do not provide funds for “savings” “sustainability” or miscellaneous." If the cost is inflated, we do not provide funding)

1 Solar Panels (100W or smaller) - $120

2 Solar Charge Controller - $30

3 12V Deep Cycle Battery - $80

4 Inverter (Optional, for AC devices) - $40

5 Wiring and Connectors - $20

Total Estimated Budget: $300

Explain the Benefits to your Community

1 Reduced energy costs for the pharmacy.

2 Decreased environmental impact from fossil fuel consumption.

3 Increased energy independence and security.

4 Promotion of renewable energy use in the community.

5 Creation of local jobs related to solar panel installation and maintenance.

6 Enhanced community health by reducing air pollution.

7 Contribution to sustainability and environmental awareness.

8 Potential for long-term savings, benefiting the local economy.

9 Improved resilience during power outages with energy storage options.

10 Positive example for other local businesses to adopt green energy solutions.