{Rwanda’s well-known artist Makanyaga Abdoul is expected to release a couple of songs about the usage of solar Energy because he believes that it is a much better option as opposed to kerosene and candles.}
Makanyaga songs were written and recorded in collaboration with Great Lakes Energy and other artists.
The songs are in line with the Solar Music Project which aims to raise awareness of solar energy usage.
In this context, Makanyaga in collaboration with Great Lakes Energy and other local artists have started the Solar Music Project where they wrote, recorded and produced a couple of songs titled, “Akira Urumuri” and “Urumuri Rwaje” with two more songs coming soon.
These artists believe music is great medium to spread an important message.
Today 18% of Rwandan homes are connected to electricity and all the homes that don’t have electricity are using kerosene and candles for light.
The GoR aims to have all homes connected to electricity as part of Vision 2020 and recently opened the biggest solar plant in East Africa in the Eastern part of the country in an endeavor to achieve this.
Makanyaga says that he resorted to the use of solar lighting because he believes that it is a much better option as opposed to kerosene and candles and urges all Rwandans to at least give it a try so that all Rwandans can say “bye bye darkness” in a cost effective manner.
He also said it is a more reliable energy source especially since the sun has always been and will always be available.
Studies have also shown that candles and kerosene lamps are not a healthy option as stated by WHO, noting that mostly women and children in impoverished areas face a higher risk of indoor pollution from all the emission of soot and black carbon that can lead to heart disease, lung cancer and acute respiratory infections.
By: {{Esther Faithful Abaho}}
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