The Problem: Our companion synod in Tanzania, Ulanga Kilombero Diocese, and related Tumaini Seminary (private high school) has used an outdoor wood and charcoal-fired kitchen for several decades. This system produces unhealthy CO2 emissions which can have detrimental health effects for all the students, teachers and administrators at the school, as well as other members of UKD who use the facility for group functions. In addition, the consumption of natural resources is detrimental to the environment.
Existing wood-burning kitchen
The Solution: NWIM Synod Council has authorized the Companion Synod Team to raise funds towards the purchase of a Solar Electric Cooking System (SECS) to replace the hazardous combustion system. In addition to producing on-site electricity for stove-top and oven cooking, the SECS would power a water pumping system and water purification system. A reputable supplier and trustworthy installation contractor have already been identified, and preliminary discussions with them are underway.
Future solar-powered kitchen
The Cost of the SECS is approximately $75,000 which includes all hardware, installation, maintenance, training and related expenses for the UKD administrator, and carbon offset credits that have been offered by an environmental non-profit organization operating in Tanzania. $5,700 has already been committed to the project by NWIM Synod and churches within the synod.
How You Can Help: In addition to your prayers, any donation you and your congregation could provide for this project in 2026 would bring our ELCT sisters and brothers in UKD closer to realizing their dream of having a clean, zero-emission, solar-powered kitchen. If each worshipping unit within NWIM Synod gifted just $125/year towards this project, the remaining need would be fully funded in seven years!