LONGi, a prominent solar technology manufacturer, and Senergia, a Swedish solar energy wholesaler, have collaborated with the non-profit organization Project Vita to donate a solar-powered freshwater system to a maternity clinic in Linga Linga, Mozambique. The project, completed in May 2024, included the construction of a water tower and the installation of LONGi solar panels to power a water pump, supplying fresh water to the clinic. Since its completion, the system has benefited 58 newborns.
Project Vita's founder, Michel Olofsson, highlighted the essential role of hygiene in maternity clinics, pointing out the severe lack of fresh, running water in rural Africa, which is crucial for reducing maternal and infant mortality rates. The partnership has been instrumental in addressing this critical need.
Mozambique also has limited electricity available, with 99% of Linga Linga's population lacking access to electricity. Anton Öbrink, Project Manager at Senergia, stressed the significance of direct and impactful aid in such impoverished regions, where basic utilities are often unavailable.
Daniel Ong, of LONGi Europe, praised the project for its substantial impact, noting that solar energy serves as a transformative force in rural African areas. He emphasized the reliability and efficiency of the solar modules, even under challenging climate conditions.
Project Vita ensured close collaboration with local authorities and community members to identify and implement the most effective solutions. The construction of the maternity clinic marked a significant milestone for Linga Linga, where women previously had to undertake long and arduous journeys to the nearest healthcare facility. The new clinic now provides essential antenatal and postnatal care, significantly enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality.
The solar-powered freshwater system is vital in reducing infection risks during childbirth and improving the clinic’s daily operations. Despite overall global declines in maternal mortality, Africa continues to experience high mortality rates with projects like this playing a crucial role in improving maternal health outcomes.
