LocationsBy Ornella Najem, Communications Officer, UNDP Lebanon | Photo credit: UNDP Lebanon/ Rana Sweidan
Solar power for women empowerment
July 19, 2021
“It is the moment when all goes dark and silent where I ask myself: what can I do to fix this?” conveyed Rita-Maria Fahed, 24 years-old from Kfaryachit.
Lebanon has been suffering from limited power and complications with energy generation for years which led to a rise in electricity and fossil fuel shortages causing an average of 20 hours of electricity outage per day and posing serious challenges to people’s livelihoods, safety, and security.
To transform potential energy solutions into women economic empowerment, especially amidst the compounded socio-economic crises and COVID-19 pandemic, UNDP, in partnership with the Government of Canada, is enhancing the integration and advancement of women in the renewable energy sector by improving their know-how and active role in installing, repairing, and maintaining solar panels.
“By participating, I am empowered to become part of the solution and I am challenging society’s stereotypes, proving that a woman can work and excel at anything,” Rita-Maria added.
Access to consistent energy results in numerous positive spill-over effects on the quality of women’s lives and their socio-economic status. This includes reducing health risks linked to the current energy practices, decreasing the time and efforts involved in household chores, enhanced local job opportunities, improved livelihoods, and increased productivity.
“Training within a field dominated by men was a surprise to my community but I refuse to conform to what people expect of me. I want to develop new skills and find a job in this field” reiterated Sara Abou Hamdan from Chouf as she reflected on her experience.
With a drill in one hand and a tape measure in another, women are breaking out of their traditional roles all while creating a pathway to sustainable, reliable, affordable, and clean renewable energy towards a brighter future in Lebanon.
Interested to be part of the training? Join our upcoming sessions in the South and Bekaa by contacting this number: +961 81 314 724
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