October 27, 2025
Solar-powered lights bring safety and opportunity, while creating new pathways for young electricians in Palabek Settlement.
With an unprecedented number of people displaced worldwide, the challenge of starting over is often compounded by the absence of basic needs. For those forced to flee, even something as essential as light at night is not always a given. In Uganda’s Palabek Settlement, home to thousands of South Sudanese refugees, solar streetlights are changing that reality. In partnership with UNHCR Netherlands, sustainable solar lighting is being brought to refugee settlements in Uganda, with the goal of restoring safety, dignity, and opportunities for residents. Solar lighting offers a sustainable, cost-effective solution in areas where electricity infrastructure is limited or nonexistent.
For Jenneth, a 17-year-old living with her mother and two sisters, the installation of a solar streetlight near her home has transformed her evenings. Once fearful of harassment in the dark, she now feels safe and shielded by the light. The illuminated space also enables her to study confidently after sunset.
