emPOWERing LIFE (ePL) is designed to transform households through the supply of low-cost solar lighting solutions via a simple microloan program.  The solar lights reduce the need for kerosene lamps (Luo = nyangile) that are costly, a fire hazard and emit unhealthy smoke.

​

The following are the basics of the emPOWERing LIFE program:

• ePL groups are formed from existing Savings Groups consisting of 6-8 participants and a Group Leader

• Groups must have an established savings and record keeping systems

• Training on the benefits of Solar Lighting is provided to the participants

• Required Pay-In amounts are saved by the participants (approximately $4 each) to begin the program

• ePL Microloan Contracts are signed by the participants for a microloan of about $22

• Solar Lights are purchased by JVP and distributed to the participants

• Participants make 8 weekly Pay-Backs of about $3 each to pay off their microloan 

• Participants share in 3 Bible studies during the loan period

​

After the microloan is paid back, each participants fully owns the solar light / charging kit and no longer has the weekly cost burden of kerosene supply and phone charging.

​