One of the themes this past year in Kantolomba has been experimentation. It’s emblematic of the project itself—exploring what’s possible and discovering how that exploration can lead to real transformation.
The young women in the cooperative tried several small business ventures. They began by purchasing used goods (salaula), starting with blankets, and reselling them within the community. They also launched a small bakery, producing buns, scones, and biscuits—with the smell of fresh baked goods drawing neighbors onto the property and creating a lively sense of connection.
Wanting to rely less on traditional charcoal, the team explored alternative cooking fuels. They identified and purchased a new design of brazier (outdoor cooker). Each cooperative member received a stove, and a microloan program was introduced so other community members could purchase one as well. Theresa shared that she went from using a 100-kg bag of fuel each month to just a 50-kg bag after switching to the new stove! This makes a tremendous difference—not only for household budgets, but also for air quality and for reducing the demand on local wood resources.
Those are just two examples among many accomplishments:
- Solar power brought more reliable and sustainable energy, which is critical given ongoing electricity cutoffs.
- Starlink internet provided consistent connectivity and expanded what’s possible for communication and learning.
- The cooperative distributed supplemental mealie meal to members, helping to support daily household needs amid rising food prices.
- The young women participated in a program focused on caring for trees, learning how to nurse tiny seedlings as they grow.
- Testing confirmed that the water well was clean and sustainable, continuing to provide reliable water even during drought conditions.
- Our nurses continued to offer healthcare support to the community.
- The young women formed a reporting team, which now helps document project activities by taking photos and sharing updates on community health and wellbeing.
Each of these efforts was made possible through the collective care and participation of the entire Sangha—in Kantolomba and around the world. Together, we continue the work of transforming lives and reducing suffering.
Gasshō,
Sreedevi