Sustainable Solar Mill: Meeting Community Needs Efficiently

Greening Africa Together (GATo) is a network of African and international: NGOs, universities (from Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, DR Congo, Kenya, Senegal, Togo, Uganda and TU Berlin) and communities which work together to encourage sustainable development. 

In the heart of Kpassagambou, Benin ,  the NGO New Humanity—together with Greening Africa Together (GATo)—is building a model of sustainable development. Over the years, we have established a permaculture and agroforestry garden, installed a solar pump, built sanitation systems, and introduced biogas technology to replace firewood and fight deforestation. Step by step, we are laying the foundations for a self-sufficient, climate-friendly future. 

Now, we have a new mission: to empower the women of Kpassagambou by improving their solar-powered mill. Every day, women walk 5 kilometers to the nearest diesel-powered mill just to grind the grains that feed their families. The existing solar mill is not powerful enough to meet demand, leaving many without a sustainable local option. They have asked for our help—and we must answer. By upgrading the mill, we will save them hours of exhausting labor, reduce reliance on polluting fossil fuels, and create an economic opportunity that will help fund the future communitarian school. 

But we are going even further. Thanks to the solar installation, this project will also become a community charging station, allowing residents to power their phones and small electrical devices sustainably. This will provide access to clean energy for everyone, another step towards a more self-sufficient community. 

Beyond infrastructure, this project is a symbol of hope, empowerment, and energy independence. It honors the strength of women and girls, who are the backbone of the community, and provides a sustainable and replicable model for other villages. 

Now is the time to act. Join us. Support this initiative and be part of the change.