Turning Steel into Solutions:

October 15, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

rise International’s Innovative Use of Shipping Containers for Sustainable Community Spaces

In its continued pursuit of sustainable design and community empowerment, rise International has pioneered an innovative approach to construction — repurposing shipping containers into functional, affordable, and eco-friendly spaces of impact. Over the past year, this method has come to life through three remarkable community projects across Lesotho, each addressing critical social needs while showcasing the transformative power of sustainable architecture.

1. The Hub Morija Library – Creating Access to Knowledge through Innovation

Completed and officially opened in March 2024, the Hub Morija Library stands as a creative example of how design can fuel education and community engagement. Constructed using two repurposed shipping containers, the project was envisioned to offer a library, learning, and storage space for the Morija community.

What makes this initiative unique is not only its low-cost and resource-efficient design but also the collaborative process behind it. By transforming used shipping containers into an inviting learning hub, rise International and its partners have demonstrated that sustainability can go hand in hand with creativity and community development.

2. Mapholaneng Community Youth Center – A Model for Sustainable Architecture in Rural Lesotho

Further north in the Mokhotlong District, rise International completed the Mapholaneng Community Youth Center in March 2025 — a project that embodies both innovation and social impact. Built entirely from converted shipping containers, the center provides a safe, dynamic, and multifunctional space for young people to gather, learn, and grow.

This approach to construction offers multiple advantages: it significantly reduces environmental impact, minimizes material waste, and lowers overall construction costs. The result is a durable, adaptable structure that can withstand local climate conditions while remaining flexible to meet the evolving needs of the community. The Youth Center is a shining example of how modern sustainability principles can be applied to rural development without compromising on quality or purpose.

3. Makoanyane Primary School ECCD Center – Building a Bright Future for Young Learners

The third initiative showcasing this sustainable model is the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Center at Makoanyane Primary School. Here, two shipping containers were transformed into a healthy, safe, and stimulating environment for early learners.

The design emphasizes natural lighting, ventilation, and child-friendly interiors, creating a nurturing atmosphere where young children can thrive. By reimagining discarded materials into meaningful spaces, rise International continues to champion a circular economy — one that gives new life to old resources while directly benefiting the next generation.

A Sustainable Path Forward

These three projects highlight how rise International is redefining what sustainable construction means in the African context. By combining innovative design, community participation, and environmental responsibility, rise demonstrates that impactful infrastructure doesn’t have to come at a high financial or ecological cost.

Each shipping container project tells a story — of transformation, creativity, and hope. What was once industrial waste has become a vessel for learning, growth, and opportunity. Through initiatives like these, rise International continues to build not just structures, but the foundations of a more sustainable and empowered future for Lesotho.

Building Dignity, Sharing Knowledge!

September 4, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

If 2024 Had A Theme, It Would Be CONSISTENCY!

Annual Report 2024

At rise International we have been moving steadily forward, improving, inspiring, building, learning, and growing. Has it been tiring? At times, yes. But more than anything, it has been energizing and deeply rewarding.

We invite you to pour yourself a warm cup of coffee or tea and join us on a journey through the highlights of 2024 through the Annual Report.

Building Better Futures at Leqele, Makoanyane Primary Schools

August brought exciting progress at Makoanyane and Leqele Primary Schools, where new toilet blocks are well underway. Led by rise International Pioneers PRO Construction and XYZ Contractors, these facilities are more than just buildings, they are a promise of dignity, safety, and a healthier school environment for hundreds of learners.

Thanks to the generous funding by Action Ireland Trust (AIT) these are the last schools of the 5hub Schools project which has seen 5 schools get new flushing toilets, food gardens, rain water harvesting and kitchens with pressure cookers.

“We are excited to see the toilets taking shape. Our learners will finally have the safe facilities they deserve, which will give them dignity and proper sanitation” shared a teacher at Leqele Primary School.

Motimposo Primary School Celebrates New Urinals

A major highlight during this month was the completion of new urinals at Motimposo Primary School, built as part of our International Workshop Project.

The 2025 International Workshop came to a conclusion having successfully constructed a much needed urinal at Motimposo Primary School in the beginning of August!

Participants from ARUP, University International Catalonia (UIC Barcelona), local volunteers, and the rise team came together to construct new urinals for the boys, using eco-friendly Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEBs). This initiative not only will improve sanitation infrastructure but also promote sustainable and community-led development.

Designed to serve nearly 900 boys, the urinals address a long-standing need for proper sanitation at the school. The spirit of teamwork culminated in a joyful handover ceremony, where students, teachers, and community members came together to celebrate this milestone.

“These new facilities will change the daily lives of our boys,” said Principal Mabokang Lehoeleha.

INSPIRING LECTURE ON HOLISTIC SUSTAINABILITY

During this month, we were so honored to host a special lecture by one of our international interns from the University International Catalonia in Barcelona, Spain ‘Nafeesa Clarke’. The session was held in partnership with Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (Lesotho), focused on holistic sustainability — how architecture can weave together environmental responsibility, social inclusion, and community empowerment.

The lecture sparked lively discussions and fresh ideas among our fellows, students, and local practitioners, strengthening rise’s commitment to learning and knowledge exchange that goes beyond borders.

The work doesn’t stop here. From new school facilities to sustainable innovation, we’re excited about what lies ahead. Thank you for standing with us as we build futures of dignity and opportunity.

News

Impact in Motion: July Highlights from Lesotho & Zambia

August 7, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

Empowering Communities Through Action – Our July rise Recap
As we move through the heart of the year, we’re excited to share some of the incredible progress and activities that took place in July across our projects in Lesotho and Zambia. From groundbreaking workshops to cross-border collaborations, July has been a month of action, learning, and impact.

Progress on the Play it Forward Project – Zambia

We’re proud to announce that the Masterplan and Concept Design for the Play it Forward (PIF) project in Zambia have been successfully completed. This marks a significant milestone in our cross-border collaboration. We now await the appointment of a Zambian architect by PIF for the official design handover and presentation, which will usher in the next exciting phase of this transformative community project.

“We are growing together” – Peter from PRO Construction Shares His Testimony

This month, we had the pleasure of capturing a heartfelt testimonial video from Peter Makhetha, founder of PRO Construction and one of our dedicated in loco alumni. His powerful story speaks to the growth, skills, and confidence he’s gained through his partnership with rise:

“Through rise, I’ve been able to grow my business, expand my team, and take on bigger projects with purpose. We are not just building structures—we’re building livelihoods.” – Peter, PRO Construction.

International Workshop Launches at Motimposo Primary School
The 2025 International Workshop officially kicked off at Motimposo Primary School this July! Participants from ARUP, University International Catalonia (UIC Barcelona), local volunteers, and the rise team came together to construct new urinals for the boys, using eco-friendly Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEBs). This initiative not only improves sanitation infrastructure but also promotes sustainable and community-led development.

ICEB Training for Fired Brick Manufacturers
To advance our mission of sustainable building, rise International hosted an introductory ICEB training for 30 fired brick manufacturers this month. Facilitated by Thato Nkikana, rise’s Project and Construction Manager, the session focused on how ICEB machinery works and how traditional brickmakers can adopt more eco-friendly and cost-effective practices in their work. It was an eye-opening experience for many, laying the groundwork for more sustainable construction practices across the sector.

ICEB Certification at Motimposo Primary School

As part of our commitment to promoting sustainable and innovative building methodologies, we also concluded an intensive training week focused on Interlocking Compressed Earth Block (ICEB) production. The training took place at Motimposo Primary School, where 14 participants of our International Workshop received their Certificates of Completion after successfully completing the program.

The participants engaged in a comprehensive learning experience that combined theoretical instruction, hands-on practical training, and collaborative knowledge sharing. From understanding the science behind earth-based construction to manufacturing and laying ICEBs, the workshop provided a robust foundation in this sustainable building technique.

Fellows Blogs

Thato Nkikana: Rising Through the Ranks in a Male-Dominated Industry

July 15, 2025By Chris Theko1 Comment

Born and raised in Maputsoe, Lesotho, Thato Nkikana is forging new paths in an industry where women remain underrepresented. As the founder and Managing Director of Basa Architects and Contractors a growing architecture and construction firm based in Maseru Nkikana is not only building infrastructure but also opportunities for women in the built environment.

Armed with a National Diploma in Architectural Technology from Lerotholi Polytechnic, Thato entered the construction field with bold determination. Her journey led her to rise International’s in loco fellowship, where she stood out as a leader among peers. The fellowship sharpened her hands-on experience and deepened her commitment to transforming how infrastructure is planned and delivered in Lesotho.

Today, she also serves as Construction and Projects Manager at rise International. In this capacity, she leads on-site construction teams, coordinates with partners and consultants, manages procurement, and ensures projects are completed on time, on budget, and to high quality standards. From sustainable school buildings to pioneering social infrastructure, Thato plays a vital role in making rise’s built projects a reality.

Since stepping into the role, she has managed some of the organisation’s most ambitious and high-profile projects. These include:

The Stadium of Life for Kick4Life—Africa’s first FSC-certified timber stadium,
The Biodiversity Stand, a key legacy feature of the stadium project,
Flushing toilet blocks at Lithabaneng Primary School,
A pavilion kitchen built from Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEBs) at Motimposo Primary School,
And the ongoing construction of a Community Hall and Youth Health Centre in collaboration with Solidarmed.

Each of these projects has required a high level of coordination, problem-solving, and leadership, skills Thato brings to every site she steps onto. Beyond construction, she is deeply committed to building inclusive spaces not only for the end users of the buildings, but also for the people who build them.

Founding Basa Architects and Contractors was not just a personal achievement for Thato—it was a statement. She created the company to open doors for other women in architecture, engineering, and construction—industries traditionally dominated by men. Her firm aims to provide inclusive job opportunities, mentorship, and a workplace where women can thrive without bias.

“Women belong on site, at the drawing board, and in the boardroom,” Thato often says. “We’re not here to compete; we’re here to contribute.”

Her vision for equity and her ability to lead with both empathy and precision make her an inspiring force within rise, and across Lesotho’s construction sector. Thato Nkikana is not just managing projects, she’s laying the foundations for a more inclusive future.

News

From Toilets to Testimonies: Your Support is Changing Lives

July 3, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

PROGRESS THROUGH PARTNERSHIP:

We are proud to share the progress of the ongoing construction of new school toilet blocks at Leqele and Makoanyane Primary Schools, in Maseru as part of the 5 Hub Schools Project. This essential infrastructure was made possible through a generous donation by Action Ireland Trust and its partners. The contractors on the ground working on the project are two of rise Pioneers XYZ Collaborative and PRO Construction, driving community transformation. These safe, clean sanitation facilities are expected to significantly improve the learning environment for hundreds of students, especially young girls.

VOICES OF IMPACT:

Pioneer Incubation Program beneficiary Seabata Motanya’s Journey

In our latest testimonial video, rise Pioneer Seabata Motanya of XYZ Collaborative shares how the in loco and Pioneer Incubation Program has transformed his life and career. His inspiring journey reflects the true spirit of rise: building people, not just projects.

Through generous donations to rise International, Seabata received vital mentorship, training, workspace, access to the internet, and tools to grow his construction business which continues to employ other job seeking young people.

rise IN KENYA: EMPLOYABILITY PROGRAM

June marked a major milestone in our expansion across Africa with the largest cohort to date of our Employability Program in Kenya (East Africa). A vibrant group of 14 participants (12 young women and 2 young men) from Jacaranda and Watamu joined the program to gain practical skills and hands-on experience through rise’s “learning-by-doing” model.

The Employability Program equips youth with CV writing skills, time management skills, interview skills, and getting ready for the workplace. All this before they begin internships across Watamu and Jacaranda for 1 – 3 months.

DESIGNING THE FUTURE:

UCL Students Present Affordable Housing Solutions

Architecture students from University College London (UCL) recently delivered their second presentation of sustainable affordable housing designs tailored to the contexts of Maseru (urban) and Mokhotlong (rural).In collaboration with rise, the students explored innovative approaches that incorporate local materials, eco-friendly technologies, and community-centric designs to tackle Lesotho’s housing challenges. This designs will help in the way we approach sustainable construction going forward in our efforts of community projects.

Thank you for being part of our journey!
Whether you’re a donor, partner, pioneer, or supporter, YOU make these stories of hope, growth, and transformation possible.

News

Empowering Exciting Developments in Our Community – Partnerships, Sustainability & School Projects!

May 12, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

Empowering Local Artisans: ICEB Training & Business Workshop

During the month of March, rise International hosted an informative workshop at Durahm Link in Maseru, aimed at educating local stone artisans about Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEBs) and providing essential business training. This initiative is part of the “Build Smart, Build Local” campaign, which promotes sustainable and innovative construction methodologies within the industry.

The session was led by Business Trainer ‘Maneo Seekane, who facilitated an open dialogue, encouraging artisans to share their experiences, challenges, and successes. Through interactive discussions, participants explored the balance between input and output in their businesses, gaining practical insights to enhance their craftsmanship and entrepreneurial skills.

This workshop underscores our commitment to equipping local artisans with knowledge and tools that foster sustainable construction and economic growth.

Celebrating the Kick4Life & Wrexham AFC Partnership

In late February, rise International had the privilege of celebrating with our partner, Kick4Life, as they launched their club twinning partnership with Wrexham AFC from Wales, UK!

This collaboration goes beyond football—it’s about empowering young people through sport, skills development, and life-changing opportunities. With the newly constructed Stadium of Life, Africa’s first-ever FSC-timber football stadium, this partnership will open even greater pathways for youth to develop their talent and build a brighter future.

Biodiversity Stand: A Step Towards a Greener Future

The Biodiversity Stand at the ‘Stadium of Life’ is making great strides and is due to be completed by the end of March. This innovative feature will not only provide additional seating in a beautiful garden setting of indigenous plants, trees and shrubs, but will also serve as an educational and cultural space with an amphitheater for performances and events, all helping to promote environmental awareness.

Using sustainable building methods and materials, the Biodiversity Stand showcases our commitment to green construction and community engagement. We are excited about the impact this will have on promoting biodiversity and sustainability within our community.

New Sanitation Facilities for Makoanyane & Leqele Primary Schools

As part of our ongoing commitment to improving school infrastructure, we are preparing to begin construction on new toilet blocks for Makoanyane and Leqele Primary Schools, thanks to the generous support of Action Ireland Trust and their partners. These facilities will ensure a healthier and safer learning environment for students, contributing to better hygiene standards and overall well-being.

The construction will be spearheaded by rise International pioneers, Peter of Pro Construction and Seabata of XYZ Collaborative, showcasing local expertise and commitment to sustainable development. This project is part of the larger initiative to enhance sanitation in schools and is made possible through collaborative efforts with key stakeholders, including Lesotho’s military, Lesotho Defence Force whose officers will be volunteering their time at the Makoanyane Primary School.

New Sanitation Facilities for Makoanyane & Leqele Primary Schools As part of our ongoing commitment to improving school infrastructure, we are preparing to begin construction on new toilet blocks for Makoanyane and Leqele Primary Schools, thanks to the generous support of Action Ireland Trust and their partners. These facilities will ensure a healthier and safer learning environment for students, contributing to better hygiene standards and overall well-being. The construction will be spearheaded by rise International pioneers, Peter of Pro Construction and Seabata of XYZ Collaborative, showcasing local expertise and commitment to sustainable development. This project is part of the larger initiative to enhance sanitation in schools and is made possible through collaborative efforts with key stakeholders, including Lesotho’s military, Lesotho Defence Force whose officers will be volunteering their time at the Makoanyane School.

News

Building Sustainably: rise Empowers Local Masons with ICEB Training

March 12, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

As part of the ongoing “Build Smart, Build Local” initiative, rise International recently hosted a capacity-building workshop at Durahm Link, Maseru, aimed at equipping local masons with sustainable construction methodologies. The workshop provided hands-on training in various brick production techniques, including conventional concrete, fire burning, and extracted rock approaches. However, the primary focus was on Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEB), an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and durable construction innovation gaining traction in the industry.

Enhancing Business Acumen in Construction

Opening the workshop, Business Trainer ‘Maneo Seekane engaged attendees in an interactive discussion on the fundamental principles of running a construction business. She emphasized key areas such as cost and price determination, necessary equipment, and production capabilities that businesses can benchmark. This session encouraged knowledge-sharing, with masons exchanging insights on their current practices, challenges, and innovative solutions.

Proprietor Kefuoe Lefera described the workshop as invaluable, stating, “These sessions are essential for sharing experiences among local entrepreneurs, building confidence in business, and fostering networking opportunities.” She highlighted ICEB’s affordability, noting that “one does not need significant capital to start production.”

Technical Insights into ICEB Production

Rise’s Construction and Projects Manager, Thato Nkikana, led the theoretical component of the workshop, detailing the composition and production of ICEBs. She stressed the importance of selecting the right materials—particularly ensuring a proper ratio of rough sand, subsoil, and mineral content. “We need at least 50% sand and 30% to 40% clay to achieve the ideal composition,” Nkikana explained, adding that sand testing can be conducted using simple household tools.

For ‘Masefabatho Sula, a representative from the Ministry of Gender Equality, Youth, and Social Development, this was her second time attending a rise ICEB workshop. She noted its instrumental role in introducing different brick-making methods. “This machinery is evidently more user-friendly and cost-effective. These workshops are crucial for knowledge-sharing and business growth,” she remarked.

Hands-On Demonstration and Practical Training

The workshop transitioned into a live demonstration led by rise International’s Construction Supervisor, Ramarou Tsoho, and Construction Coordinator, Tumelo Sethunsa. Both experts guided participants through the mixing process and operational techniques of ICEB machinery. Tsoho demonstrated how to produce full and half blocks, emphasizing the importance of adhering to a guidebook for beginners while allowing for micro-adjustments as experience grows. “Following the correct process ensures consistency and quality in production,” he advised.

Attendees were given the opportunity to operate the machinery, providing them with firsthand experience. Local businessman Makhetha Khoabane acknowledged the significance of ICEB technology in expanding his brick-making business. Similarly, Phoofolo Khoabane expressed enthusiasm about acquiring ICEB machinery, citing its lower production costs compared to conventional methods. “Owning this equipment would allow me to scale my enterprise efficiently,” he stated.

Rise International’s Commitment to Sustainable Development

Rise International continues to champion sustainable development through its various projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Notable initiatives include the Stadium of Life and the 5 Hub Schools project, both of which incorporate eco-friendly materials such as timber, sandbags, and ICEBs. One of the organization’s significant achievements is the construction of the Motimposo Primary School Kitchen Pavilion using ICEBs—a fully operational facility that has greatly improved meal preparation for students.

Through initiatives like the ICEB workshop, rise International remains dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship, promoting innovative building technologies, and empowering local communities in Lesotho. As the adoption of sustainable construction practices grows, such training programs are essential in driving economic and social development across the region.

News

January 2025 Highlights

February 13, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

We hope that 2025 has started well for you. As we step into the 2nd month of 2025, we are filled with optimism and enthusiasm for the journey ahead. We are delighted to share updates on our ongoing projects and the incredible progress being made thanks to your continued support.

Progress in Mokhotlong with SolidarMed Lesotho

Our partnership with SolidarMed Lesotho is off to a strong start. The design phase of the new youth center and health and community facility in the highlands of Mokhotlong District is underway and is expected to be completed by Mid March. This innovative shipping container conversion into a youth centre which is being executed by our 2019 Pioneer, Bokang Tjakotja who founded BEEK Projects, is a testament to the power of sustainable design and our pioneers’ dedication to creating meaningful solutions for underserved communities. We look forward to sharing more updates as this transformative project progresses.

Empowering Pioneers Through Collaboration

January marked another milestone for our Pioneer Business Incubation Program. We continue to guide and equip our Pioneers with collaborative skills through clusters designed to enhance collaboration and skill-building dynamic workshops focused on project management, equipping our pioneers with essential tools to lead impactful initiatives. The Mokhotlong project continues to showcase the strength of this program by providing social enterprise opportunities for our Pioneers to thrive.

We also see other Pioneers benefiting from the clusters with a recent infrastructure project where our 2019 Pioneer Seabata Motanya who founded XYZ Collaborative and Peter Makhetha who founded PRO Construction were working side by side paving sidewalks in Lesotho’s capital city, Maseru.

Upcoming Initiatives for 2025

rise will be coordinating a collaborative research project between Nottingham Trent University (NTU), Lerotholi Polytechnic (LP), and the National University of Lesotho (NUL). The project focuses on analyzing building materials for affordable housing, with NUL Economics students assessing costs, LP Architecture students examining social impact, and NTU students evaluating environmental sustainability.

Six interdisciplinary student groups will conduct a comparative assessment of locally available materials, culminating in a final online presentation of their findings. This initiative fosters international collaboration and aims to inform sustainable and cost-effective housing solutions in Lesotho.

This year, we are excited to expand our efforts in promoting sustainable building practices and entrepreneurship. Key initiatives include:

Continued research and advocacy for hempcrete construction in Lesotho, with a focus on affordable and eco-friendly housing solutions.
Completion of the Stadium of Life project, with the next phase set to focus on the conclusion of Biodiversity Stand.

How can we ensure that every young person, regardless of background, has an equal chance to succeed? Whether it’s through mentorship, referrals, or simply spreading the word about the work we do with our in loco fellowship and Pioneer Business Incubation Program — every action counts.

We are incredibly grateful for your support, and we have no doubt that together, we can make an even greater impact this year. Let’s keep pushing forward. Let’s keep believing in the power of entrepreneurship, innovation and collaboration. Let’s make 2025 a year of action, hope, and change.

Thank You for Your Support

News

Closing off an impactful year!

December 19, 2024By Chris Theko0 comment

This year, rise International has made significant strides across our three core pillars: Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Development, Promoting Social Enterprise, and Innovative Building Methodologies.

Let’s take a moment to celebrate the highlights from Q2&Q3 and share our vision for the future.

Read Quarterly report here

Enhancing School Infrastructure Through the 5 Hub Schools Program

Thanks to the support of Action Ireland Trust and in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Training, we completed several impactful projects, including the construction of new flushing toilet blocks for Lithabaneng Primary School. We also distributed 39 pressure cookers to five schools, streamlining their daily operations and improving overall efficiency.

Sod turning Events at Makoanyane and Leqele Primary Schools
We recently marked the beginning of two exciting new projects at Makoanyane and Leqele Primary Schools where new ablution blocks will be built for the 1500 learners who currently have to use very unhygienic and inadequate pit latrines with no running water.

Our work with Action Ireland Trust enabled significant support for local schools, while our partnership with the British High Commission laid the groundwork for future collaborations aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and green growth in Lesotho.

Innovative Building Methodologies

Breaking New Ground with Sustainable Construction – Countdown to conclusion of Stadium of Life

The Kick4Life Stadium of Life project in Maseru is a testament to the potential of sustainable building. Using FSC-certified timber, we have completed the West seating stand and we are about to complete the South stand. The stadium fencing is now 95% complete, and we’re gearing up for the next milestone—the completion of the Biodiversity Stand.

Collaborating with SolidarMed in Lesotho

We recently began an exciting partnership with SolidarMed Lesotho, an international non-profit that improves health care for 1.5 million people in Lesotho, Moçambique, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe, through infrastructure development and quality health services. In this partnership we are to design and construct a new youth centre in a health and community facility in the highlands of the Mokhotlong District. This project aligns with our mission to create sustainable and impactful solutions for underserved communities.

Potential Collaboration with Skate World Better

We’re thrilled to have also welcomed the Founder of Skate World Better, Martin and his associates, all the way from the Czech Republic, to Maseru, Lesotho! They are a non-profit organization building skateparks around Africa on a mission to support kids and young adults through skateboarding.This visit marked the beginning of a potential collaboration with rise International to explore how skateboarding can drive youth development and inspire change in our communities.

Click Here to Get Involved

Looking Ahead

As we plan for 2025, we’re excited to expand our initiatives and deepen our impact. From launching new community projects to advancing sustainable building practices, our mission to create lasting change remains steadfast.

Case Studies

African Clean Energy – Addressing limited access to clean cooking energy solutions in Africa.

December 9, 2024By Chris Theko0 comment

DATE 04/12/2024

BY MINAH LEKAU- Monitoring Evaluation & Research Coordinator

BACKGROUND:

African Clean Energy (ACE) is an international social enterprise dedicated to providing off-grid communities in developing countries with access to clean and affordable energy cooking solutions. Through the manufacturing and distribution of the ACE 1 hybrid energy system, ACE offers users a cost-effective product that provides both clean thermal energy for cooking and essential electricity for device charging and lighting.

THE PROBLEM:

The project set out to address limited access to clean cooking energy solutions in remote and underserved communities where geographic isolation and infrastructure make it difficult for communities to obtain while also eradicating poverty levels due to limited job opportunities by providing local employment opportunities that empower communities economically and socially

THE SOLUTION

ACE commissioned rise to design and install 4 self-sufficient mobile shops in Nazareth, Motsekuoa, Mapoteng, and Mphaki. Each mobile unit has a full photovoltaic (PV) solar system, batteries, fridges, printers, and other essential tools, enabling them to function independently. These mobile shops brought efficient, smoke-free cooking technologies directly to off-grid households, expanding access to life-changing solutions designed for these communities, improving health, reducing fuel usage, and fostering environmental sustainability.

THE METHODOLOGY

With support from EU funds, the rise team, in collaboration with our 2018 and 2019 Pioneers (Pioneers are graduates from rise‘s 10-month Design, Build, and Entrepreneurship in loco Fellowship program. Upon completing the fellowship, these graduates enter a three-year business incubation program, which offers business coaching, mentorship, access to power tools and machinery, workspace, networking opportunities, and project referrals) designed and constructed four mobile shops.

THE IMPACT:

Since the handover of these mobile energy hubs in 2019 to date several key accomplishments have been realized:

Strong Relationships with Village Leaders:
ACE has successfully established a strong rapport with local village leaders, significantly improving their Know Your Customer (KYC) process. These relationships have facilitated smoother operations and increased trust in ACE’s products and services.
Enhanced Marketing and Customer Base Expansion:
The mobile energy hubs have served as effective marketing tools, helping ACE increase its customer base. By offering more direct access to remote rural areas, ACE has been able to onboard new customers, further expanding its reach and impact.
Improved Service Delivery:
The hubs have played a crucial role in maintaining a consistent and reliable fuel distribution network for ACE’s hybrid energy systems. Additionally, the mobile energy hubs have enabled ACE to respond to customer maintenance requests more efficiently and quickly.

After-Sales Support:
These hubs, among the oldest in ACE’s network, have proven invaluable for providing after-sales support. They serve as a critical point of contact for a large portion of ACE’s customer base, offering essential repair services and guidance on the use of renewable energy technologies.
Educational Opportunities:
The hubs have created spaces where locals can educate themselves about renewable energy solutions and the benefits of transitioning to more sustainable energy sources. This shift in mindset is crucial for promoting the long-term adoption of clean energy technologies.
Local Employment and Women Empowerment:
Since the completion of the mobile shops, ACE has consistently hired three field agents and a watchman for each hub at any given time, specifically from the local area.

TESTIMONIALS

Rethabile Mafura- Director of ACE

“This initiative has successfully expanded ACE’s reach into rural, underserved communities, improving service delivery and creating economic opportunities, particularly for women. By providing energy access and education, ACE is dedicated to scaling its impact and driving social and environmental change in these regions.”