Almost like clockwork, my return from Togo is accompanied by astonishment and feeling completely overwhelmed with the demanding, fast-paced atmosphere of the States (or as Greg Mortenson calls it in Three Cups of Tea,
"Jet lag. Culture Shock. Whatever you call the demons of dislocation." - AMAZING BOOK by the way, I am just about done reading it.)
...This time it felt different.
It is hard to put in to words, but in many ways, my life has more significance when I am in Togo, completely focused on the development of SunPower Afrique, the expansion of its programs, new partnerships and projects, wading through the constant struggle with bureaucracy and authority that is neccesary for success. Making a difference with so many people that need and appreciate me. On the East Coast of the United States, I am forever caught up in capitalism and running a business, time consuming and aimed almost entirely at making money. This, of course, required for survival and living life in America. And without it, SunPower Afrique's Pilot Project would never have happened.
Also, the past 2.5 weeks were completely nonstop. Rushing to get both the system installed and all "activites officiels" taken care of, I didn't slow down the entire time, neither did Ron and Jon. We are all exhausted! But the work does not stop here, it only grows along with expectations and plans, and the frustration with being unable to devote 100%, being far away and how quickly time flies, is growing!
The entire FECECAV community and Kpalime officials are , and people are talking about solar energy. In the next few weeks, we will sign contracts with FECECAV and its branches on the final terms of the Solar Loan Program and the repayment of the loan from SunPower Afrique for 50% of the cost of its solar system. We will also keep a close eye on system performance through our trained technicians, and assign a test to all 11 memebers of our Solar Team will be required for certification. In typical Togolese custom of course, tests will be given to "les patrons" to take for a certification of the team. The apprentices will not receive individual certifications just yet, regardless of their competence...we'll get there.
SunPower Afrique has also solidified a partnership with a French development agency, already a partner of FECECAV, to finance 3 more installations on CECAVs throughout the plateau region. I hope that these projects will be underway in early 2011 at the latest. The projected locations are rural branches who do not have any access to electricity without the use of generators when funds/fuel are available: Amoussokope, Danyi and Wome.
I am also thrilled to have a new partner on the ground, in a Microfinance Consultant named Ashley (whom I met at the Chicago Microfinance Conference), who has agreed to work with SunPower Afrique during a 2-year volunteer program she has just begun.
My head is swimming with all of the next steps and loose ends, and what is waiting for me on Tuesday AM at the office (yikes.) SunPower is becoming a fast-moving train, I hope that I can continue keep up with it!
Happy 4th of July. 234 years. Togo is celebrating its 50th year of independence from France this year, posters and billboards in Lome announcing its arrival. We all have so far to go...
Mahemava -
Kira
