The region of Matsangoni, in the district of Kilifi, has a population of roughly 9000 people who mainly depend on farming. The population is very young, with an average age of 20, and wages are generally low.

In rural Kenya, including the Matsangoni region, access to medical care is extremely limited, with a lack of facilities, poor infrastructure and too little health care professionals. Small health clinics are often the only accessible option to health care. However, these mostly lack electricity and basic medical equipment. This greatly impacts the quality and scope of services: without refrigeration, for example, the ability to administer many medications or vaccinations is impossible. Since most people do not have access to motorised vehicles, they need make their way up to 10km to a more resourced clinic with electricity to get treatment. Of course, this becomes especially challenging for vulnerable groups such as the elderly or pregnant women and it is also an issue that people in general are less inclined to seek basic medical care.

SolarCare aims to improve local healthcare by equipping two health stations with solar panels and much-needed medical equipment (e.g., blood pressure monitors, examination lights, thermometers, IV stands, scales for (small) children, examination couches, medication refrigerators). Additionally, health education in three schools and women’s groups will promote disease prevention. Established mobile teams will also be supported in their effort to inform and communicate about health-related topics.