1. Project Background
Nanyuki Methodist Education Centre, a church-based school serving children from the Nanyuki community, reached out to Mt. Kenya Network Forum with an urgent support request.
The school has been experiencing frequent electricity outages, high monthly power bills, and inadequate lighting within its compound — challenges that pose security risks and hinder evening study for pupils preparing for their national examinations.
In response to this appeal, Mt. Kenya Network Forum incorporated the school into our Renewable Energy and Clean Lighting Campaign, which aims to provide sustainable lighting solutions to vulnerable institutions across the Mt. Kenya region.
2. Problem Statement
The school’s lighting challenges were affecting students in several ways:
- Insecurity at night due to dark sections of the compound and dormitory areas
- Limited study time for learners preparing for the upcoming KCPE exams
- Heavy reliance on unreliable electricity supply, leading to high bills and inconsistent lighting
- Lack of resources to procure solar systems, as many learners are on church-based scholarships
The school’s appeal underlined the need for immediate intervention to create a safer, more supportive environment for pupils.
3. Our Intervention
After reviewing the request letter from the school’s management, Mt. Kenya Network Forum mobilized resources under the clean energy program and delivered solar security lighting units to the institution.
The intervention aimed to:
- Strengthen night-time security around the school compound and dormitories
- Provide reliable lighting during power outages
- Reduce electricity-related expenses
- Support learners’ ability to revise in the evening without interruptions
This action was implemented as part of MKNF’s broader mission to promote sustainable energy solutions within community institutions.
4. Project Outcomes
Following the installation and delivery of solar lights, the school has reported several immediate benefits:
- Brighter and safer outdoor spaces, especially during the night
- Improved visibility for security guards on day-and-night duty
- A more enabling environment for evening study sessions
- Reduced pressure from high electricity bills
- Increased confidence for learners preparing for their KCPE exams
These outcomes demonstrate how simple, sustainable interventions can directly uplift learning conditions and community safety.
5. Partnerships and Support
This project was made possible through the ongoing support of our partners, including:
- 350.org
- Global Greengrants Fund
Their continued commitment empowers MKNF to expand renewable energy solutions in schools, churches, and community spaces across the Mt. Kenya and ASAL regions.
We also appreciate the proactive leadership of Nanyuki Methodist Education Centre for initiating the request and collaborating with our team throughout the process.
6. Next Steps
Mt. Kenya Network Forum will continue to:
- Monitor the impact of the solar lighting installation
- Explore additional renewable energy solutions for the school
- Support more learning institutions facing similar challenges
- Document and share success stories to inspire community-driven climate solutions
Institutions in need of renewable energy support are encouraged to reach out to MKNF for assessment and possible inclusion in future interventions.
7. Conclusion
The Solar Security Lighting Support for Nanyuki Methodist Education Centre reflects our commitment to climate justice, community resilience, and access to clean, reliable energy.
By lighting up the school compound, we are lighting up possibilities — ensuring that no child’s future is dimmed by darkness or insecurity.
