OA update: solar inverters in and covid update
Open Arms reached out with a report on recent activities in Malawi, including the good news that the solar inverters are now in place in Mangochi and the steps they are taking to maintain operations during the pandemic.
WMP REPORT: FEBRUARY 2021
Power back-up system project update
The purchase and installation of the two power back-up systems has been plagued by COVID-19 disruptions: equipment was stuck at Customs, external electricians were not permitted on Open Arms sites, and other related difficulties.
In Mangochi, we are pleased to inform you that the solar inverters have now been installed. The new system includes:
1. Two solar panels, roof-mounted and North-facing;
2. A 12V, 22AH tubular, inverted battery;
3. An intelligent inverter, which charges the battery from the solar batteries. If there is an extended period of very dull weather, the inverter switches to charge from mains power. Should the mains power fail, the inverter immediately switches function from battery charged to power supply. The solar power stored in the 12V battery is converted back to 230V to supply the Infant Home.
This installation replaces the old, non-solar inverter, which failed in 2020. It gives greater capacity and will ensure that emergency lighting can run for 24+ hours and computer/communication can be powered in the small Open Arms office in Malawi.
The new system will significantly reduce Open Arms’ costs as it will reduce the time that the diesel generator will need to be used. Now, the generator will only need to run when washing machines and dryers are in use.
We would like to thank the Watson Malawi Partnership for funding this fantastic installation and Fred for his work in completing the installation.
We plan to repeat the exercise in Blantyre before Easter. Plans are being made to install one at Rose’s House.
Covid-19 Update
The Ministry of Health in Malawi has notified the public that, as of the 2nd of February 2021, 538 new COVID-19 cases have been registered, with 573 new recoveries and 14 new deaths. All new cases are locally transmitted. Cumulatively, Malawi has recorded 24,903 cases including 736 deaths, with a case fatality rate of 2.9%.
Open Arms is currently focusing on being able to keep our services running and we have limited residential numbers in Mangochi, but increased outreach to provide support where it is needed. Stabilising our existing services remains of paramount importance to our operations.
Schools are currently closed again in Malawi as part of a three-week shutdown until 8th February 2021. The team are monitoring the situation closely to adapt our family home support as needed. Despite the constant changes, the children continue to manage exceptionally. We have recently celebrated some exams and training being completed, and the team were starting to explore higher education and internships.
Like the rest of the world, our older children, and their house Mums, have already spent time last year in lockdown with studies moving to online learning and everyone getting very involved in running their houses. As they adapt to another lockdown, together with your help, we will do all we can to support each individual and help them through this difficult time.
We thank you for your continued support and welcome any questions regarding the above report. We look forward to continuing our work together, and fulfilling our aims and objectives as we navigate this difficult time.
