GIT, Sauti ya Jamii empowering Communities with Sustainable Energy

 GIT, Sauti ya Jamii empowering Communities with Sustainable Energy

By Deogratius Temba

Global Impact Transformation (GIT) recently held a workshop in Kipunguni, Dar es Salaam, teaching 66 people, including women, men, children, and people with disabilities, how to make alternative charcoal. This eco-friendly fuel helps reduce deforestation and promotes sustainable living, aligning with the UN's climate action goals (SDG 13) and contributing to gender equality (SDG 5) by empowering women economically.

Fatma Abdulrahman, Chairperson of Sauti ya Jamii-Kipunguni, emphasized the importance of community-driven solutions for environmental conservation and economic empowerment. "This workshop is more than just an environmental effort; it is about giving our communities the tools they need to create a better, more sustainable future," she stated.

Humphrey Evarist Ottaru, Coordinator from GIT, explained that alternative charcoal is a "game-changer" because it reduces the need to cut down trees, provides affordable energy, and creates economic opportunities.

Participants learned two methods of making alternative charcoal: one using rotten poultry food and another using cardboard boxes. They mixed materials like clay, cassava porridge, and water to create charcoal briquettes. Before the workshop, 97% of the attendees had never heard of alternative charcoal, showing how important this educational initiative is.

The workshop also highlighted the economic benefits of alternative charcoal, presenting it as a potential business opportunity. One facilitator noted, "For women, this project is a breakthrough in fighting poverty. It enables them to produce and sell an affordable fuel source while reducing the time spent collecting firewood, which is often an unpaid burden on them."

GIT plans to continue these workshops, build more partnerships, and advocate for policies that support the use of alternative energy.

Martha Nghambi, the Executive Director of GIT, emphasized the organization's focus on environment, sustainable energy, clean energy such as alternative charcoal production, and climate change, particularly as it relates to empowering women, children, and persons with disabilities. As she explained, " "At GIT, we believe that addressing climate change and promoting sustainable energy solutions go hand-in-hand with empowering women, children, and persons with disabilities. Our work with alternative charcoal production is a prime example. It protects our environment and creates economic opportunities, particularly for women, allowing them to become agents of change in their communities. In providing access to clean energy and sustainable livelihoods, we're building a more resilient and equitable future for everyone." - Martha Nghambi, Executive Director, Global Impact Transformation (GIT)