HARARE, Jan. 16 (NewsDay Live) – Jairos Jiri Children Centre in Harare on Friday received a major boost after a Chinese company installed a US$12 000 solar power system to provide reliable, clean energy to the institution serving nearly 200 children with disabilities.
The 12-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system was installed by Jiangsu Fanye Power Energy Equipment Company and is expected to power classrooms, offices and essential services, reducing disruptions caused by frequent power cuts.
The project was officially handed over on Friday by China’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zhou Ding, who also donated educational materials, computers, school bags and food supplies worth thousands of dollars.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Zhou commended the Jairos Jiri Association for its decades-long commitment to empowering children with disabilities through education, training and healthcare.
“Today we are not only delivering donations, but celebrating the enduring friendship and deepening partnership between China and Zimbabwe,” Zhou said.
“Education is fundamental to development, and we are proud to support initiatives that improve learning conditions and create brighter futures.”
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He said Chinese companies operating in Zimbabwe were increasingly involved in corporate social responsibility initiatives, including community infrastructure, health and education projects.
Chairperson of Jiangsu Fanye Power Energy Equipment, Amy Meng, said the solar installation symbolised the company’s commitment to sharing sustainable technology with communities in need.
“Sunlight has no borders. Clean energy can light up the future, and technology should benefit everyone,” Meng said.
“For the children here, this system means brighter classrooms, safer electricity and more opportunities to learn.”
President of the Jairos Jiri Association, Alva Senderayi, described the intervention as transformative, particularly for learners affected by electricity shortages.
“The solar system has become a radiant light, ensuring uninterrupted learning for children with disabilities and supporting a more sustainable future,” Senderayi said, thanking the Chinese Embassy and Jiangsu Fanye for their support.
Founded more than six decades ago, the Jairos Jiri Association provides education, rehabilitation and vocational training to children and adults living with disabilities across Zimbabwe.