Water and Energy

Zambia’s heavy reliance on hydropower leaves rural communities vulnerable to climate-induced energy shortages. To address this, World Vision Zambia’s "Blue Thread" strategy integrates solar-powered microgrids with WASH services. This approach drives sustainable development by enhancing healthcare, education, and economic resilience in underserved regions like Chama District

Water + Energy Impact

Impact on Education

Access to electricity in schools has significantly enhanced the learning environment. Previously, teaching and learning activities were limited to daylight hours and lacked access to digital tools.

Improved Health and Nutrition

The connection of water systems to the micro-grids has enabled access to a 24-hour water supply, ensuring a continuous supply of safe water to the health facility and surrounding community households.
This reliable water supply has improved hygiene and sanitation conditions, contributing to a reduction in waterborne diseases, particularly diarrhoea illnesses. Local health records indicate a reduction in reported diarrhoea cases compared to previous years.

Gender Empowerment

The project has also created significant opportunities for women’s economic empowerment. Women have been deliberately targeted to participate in income-generating activities. Women-led IGA groups have been established to capitalise on the new economic opportunities created by electricity access. A notable group-based women's group is Ukani Community-Based Organisation, established as an IGA group engaged in Poultry, offering catering services, hammer milling, and the sale of maize bran.

Solar Energy is Igniting Economic Freedom in Chikwa

Discover the impact of solar power in Chikwa through the eyes of the community. This feature highlights the success of the WASH and Energy Project in fostering sustainable development and female entrepreneurship.

Watch Margret’s testimonial on how renewable energy provides the foundation for new livelihoods and long-term financial security in rural areas.

"Water is Capital," says Elijah, a farmer in Chikwa

In Chikwa, Elijah is no longer just farming for today; he is building a tomorrow for his children. Through the Chikwa Energy and WASH project, solar-powered water has arrived on his land, turning a dry landscape into a thriving classroom for the next generation. For Elijah, water is capital—the lifeblood that keeps his children healthy, fed, and in school.

From Off-Grid to On-the-Rise: The Chikwa Transformation

For years, the people of Chikwa lived beyond the reach of the national power grid, with no plans for connection in sight. This isolation didn't just mean dark nights; it meant stalled progress in clinics, limited hours for students, and stifled economic growth.

That changed when World Vision US introduced the integrated WASH and Energy Project. By harnessing the Zambian sun, we didn't just install lights—we ignited a massive shift across every pillar of community life.

Stories

World Vision Zambia Brings Light and Life to Manga Community with New Energy and Water System

“My dreams of becoming a journalist have now become brighter,” says Gloria after witnessing her community's water and solar energy lighting ceremony.

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Solar Energy: Lighting Up Lives

In the rural community of Manga, life is undergoing a remarkable transformation, thanks to the powerful impact of solar energy and improved access to...