Amandla Emvelo Solar is on a mission to bring clean, affordable solar energy to rural communities in the  Eastern Cape. This month, our team embarked on a transformative outreach campaign to the Wild Coast of  Pondoland, demonstrating our commitment to sustainable energy access and deep respect for traditional  leadership and local customs. This outreach will continue and spread to other communities over the next two  months.

Chief Faku’s Great Place, Lambase

Our team visited the Great Place of Chief Faku (Tshezi) at Lambase, strategically located along the coastal  route on the new N2 highway connecting KwaZulu-Natal with the Eastern Cape. This community, situated in  the outskirts of Lusikisiki within the Ngquza Hill District Municipality, welcomed us with enthusiasm and  openness.

Mural on the wall of the community hall, entrance to Chief Faku’s Great Place, Lambase.

Honouring Traditional Leadership

Before the main imbizo (community gathering), CEO Dr. Loyiso Mbabane spent time engaging with village  elders and community leaders. This respectful approach demonstrates our commitment to working within  traditional leadership structures and honouring the cultural protocols that are foundational to these  communities.

CEO Dr. Loyiso Mbabane engaging with village elders before the imbizo

Following cultural tradition, our team presented hamb’idlani (traditional gifts—literally meaning ‘what were you eating on the way’) to Chief Faku. 

Engaging the Community

The Amandla Emvelo team addressed the community inside the hall. Our team demonstrated various solar  systems and products, explaining how clean, renewable energy can transform daily life for rural households  and small businesses. 

The response was remarkable. The hall filled nearly to capacity with community members eager to learn  about solar energy solutions. Residents asked thoughtful questions about products, pricing, technical  specifications, installation processes, and how solar power could benefit their homes and enterprises.

Session Outcomes

The Lambase outreach achieved significant results:

• Educated dozens of community members about solar energy technology and benefits
• Generated substantial interest with numerous follow-up inquiries expected 
• Addressed questions ranging from technical details to financial affordability and installation
• Established meaningful connections with local leadership and residents

Continued Community Access

Amandla Emvelo maintains a mobile shop to ensure ongoing accessibility for rural communities. Our team  operates every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday outside Capitec Bank in Lusikisiki. Community members are  encouraged to visit our distinctive white Nissan Navara truck for consultations, product information, and solar  solutions tailored to their needs.

Additional Community Visits

February-March 2026

Further visits are being planned for the Mphophomeni-Mgugwana as well as Parmeton-Zalu areas. Specific dates and details will be announced on our Facebook page and website as they are confirmed.