As we touch a light switch in the UK, the room is illuminated. When we switch on our electrical equipment, there is immediate power. However, imagine if that were not the case and the reality was that power is available only for a short while and then only enough to run a few lights and sockets in your home.

In Malawian villages this is reality. Many houses, schools and shops have no power at all, those who rely on solar power can only use as much as is held in the battery, which may only power one light and a socket. Mains power is available in the towns but even that is subject to regular powers cuts, which means that businesses cant function properly.

At Hope Clinic, solar power has been installed to run the lighting and a few sockets in the clinic and staff houses. It also runs the water borehole and equipment. However, with the maternity wing now being built, there is a need for a more robust power source, as there will be more equipment and better lighting, especially in the delivery room.

Starfish therefore wish to provide mains power to the whole of the Hope Clinic site, so that both clinic and maternity wing can have a better quality of lighting and power.

To achieve this, we need to purchase an electricity transformer and the associated wiring and equipment. A transformer is needed and will come from ESCOM, the national electricity company, but we have to apply and pay for it up front and then wait for installation, which can take up to a year to eighteen months. This waiting period may be reduced as we are partnering with the government for the provision and running of Hope Clinic, but there is no guarantee.

The cost of the transformer is currently estimated at £20,000 and the wiring and equipment a further £5,000.

We appreciate that this is a large amount to fund but we hope that we can raise enough to begin the application process. Donations will be put into a committed fund for mains power, in the Starfish accounts. Once the application is made and approved, payment will be made but we then have to wait to receive the transformer and be connected to the grid.

We hope that you will feel able to support this appeal, as to have mains power for the clinic and maternity wing is now crucial to its work in the community.

Thank you.