AVSI Foundation - A2E Fund

In Ongata Rongai, rapid population growth is increasing demand for healthcare services. Fatima Mission Hospital provides maternity and emergency care to low-income families, but an unstable electricity supply disrupts clinical procedures, limits the use of equipment and compromises the storage of vaccines and medicines.

In addition to more reliable energy, the hospital needs financial resources and technical skills to maintain the future solar installation and allow the project’s long-term impact. 

Country: Kenya 
Region: Ongata Rongai, Kajiado County

The project will install a hybrid solar system with batteries to provide more stable energy to Fatima Mission Hospital, with the electricity grid retained as a backup source. The solution will strengthen the continuity of maternity, emergency, laboratory, vaccine and medicine storage, and night-time services.

Three hospital staff members will receive training in safety, monitoring and maintenance. This capacity building will make it possible to track equipment performance, identify problems promptly and support the day-to-day management of the system.

Part of the energy generated will power a community kiosk managed by a local entrepreneur. Depending on the needs identified within the community, services may include internet access, printing, mobile phone charging and refrigeration.

Part of the kiosk’s revenue will be channelled into a fund for maintenance and repairs to the solar system. The hospital, health authorities, the entrepreneur and community representatives will participate in the management and oversight of this model, strengthening transparency and infrastructure sustainability. 

Expected results:

•  A hybrid solar system will improve the continuity of maternity, emergency, laboratory, vaccine and medicine storage services.
• A solar-powered kiosk will provide services to the community, create a local entrepreneurship opportunity and contribute to financing system maintenance and repairs.
• Reduced grid electricity and diesel use will free up resources for medicines, equipment, and support for vulnerable families.
• The use of renewable energy could avoid between 51 and 58 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year.