More Than Light: A Solar-Powered Salon Bringing Health, Dignity and Opportunity to Naluvule Village.
Transforming lives through sustainable energy and community empowerment
In Naluvule Village, Buikwe District, families faced the struggles of no health facilities, no electricity, and limited clean water. Even basic haircuts required a 10km journey. But in 2024, the community made a bold decision: to harness the sun and their own talents to create a solar-powered salon—reshaping health, livelihoods, and hope.
The Challenge: When a Haircut Becomes a Health Crisis
Scalp fungal infections were widespread, intensified by a lack of hygienic barbering services. Shared, unsterilized razors posed risks, while trips to town were costly. Hygiene became the community’s top priority.
We have many challenges in Naluvule, but without proper hygiene, our children cannot be healthy enough to face other problems.
— Nalongo Makubuya Katooko, VSLA Chairperson
The Solution: Harnessing the Sun
The community mobilized through their VSLA group, supported by FOSCOD Uganda and local solar technicians. The result: a solar-powered salon with sterilized equipment, phone charging, and even a community radio.
Impact: Health, Jobs, and Dignity
- Public Health Victory: 85% of participants adopted handwashing, fungal infections dropped.
- Economic Empowerment: Youth like Abubaker now earn incomes through salon work.
- Community Ownership: Weekly UGX 40,000 revenue supports a maintenance fund.
I used to sit idle at home, now I earn money every day while serving my community.
— Abubaker, Salon Attendant
A Model for the Future
Naluvule’s success is inspiring expansion. FOSCOD is developing a parish-wide WASH program with solar-powered water pumps and other community-led enterprises across Kalagala Parish.
You Can Support Community-Led Change
Join us in creating more success stories like Naluvule's solar-powered salon.