Another beautiful day in paradise. I (Bruce) was useless for most of the day because of intestinal problems, but Jeremy and Patrick are very able instructors. Our Rwandan brothers caught on quickly to modifying LED lanterns to receive rechargeable battery packs. When we arrived in Kigali, we learned that electricity had reached Gasarabwayi and we were concerned that solar lighting may no longer be necessary. Pastor Elie explained that only houses near the main road could connect, and 98% of church members remain off-the grid. Patrick and Jeremy delivered soccer balls and basketballs to another nearby and larger K-12 school. Jeremy’s light complexion and hairy arms are totally fascinating to Rwandan children. He was mobbed by hundreds of smiling faces. After sleeping away the morning I regained enough strength to set up a small, but high powered cookstove. The stove has potential for saving money, reducing respiratory disease and slowing the rate of deforestation. The key element of the design is a small fan that improves primary and secondary combustion. This type of stove is now possible because of the solar panels and rechargeable battery packs. We introduced this new technology by making pop corn. This new taste treat was a hit with the children and one of the church leaders said that making and selling popcorn could easily become a profitable business.
6 Comments
Frank Reynolds
3/1/2013 07:22:29 am
Hate to hear Bruce is sick, but great to see Elie.
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Stephen S.
3/1/2013 11:08:32 am
Hope you feel better, pops. Snowstorm #2 turned out to be freezing rain. Life could be worse.
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Debbie Lane
3/1/2013 09:44:19 pm
It's so great to see all the smiling faces of Gasarabwayi. Tell them I miss them all so much. I am so excited that electricity has made it to main part of the village. In speaking with Pastor Theo, he may be applying for a compassion project at the Gasarabwayi church. I am praying that the application process goes well and that they can get involved with an amazing ministry.
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cathy southerland
3/1/2013 10:51:39 pm
I hope you are feeling better today. I've been praying for good communication between you, the interpreter, and our friends there. The gift of light (portable too) has got to be helpful. Popcorn is just fun. :) The cooker looks great. I'm still praying the generator shows up. All is well here...looks like the sap is flowing, slowly but flowing. Love you! Miss you!
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Brad Griffin
3/1/2013 11:17:15 pm
Sorry to hear about Bruce not feeling well. But, so proud of this group and praying for you all.
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Lisa Mazur
3/2/2013 02:41:25 am
So sorry you're not feeling well Bruce. We'll be praying for you and health for the team. Love these pics and all that you're team is doing there. God bless you all. Hugs to everyone!
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