BY AKUDORO GLORIA
The Akwa Ibom Women Association (AIWA), Houston Chapter, US, on Monday commissioned a 7.5 kilowatts Solar Power System at the Child’s Right and Rehabilitation Network (CRARN) in Eket, Akwa Ibom State.
The Association’s President, Mrs. Mercy Odungide, during the commissioning at Ikot Afaha in Eket Local Government Area, said the children would no longer witness power outages during their academic work in the centre.
Odungide, while emphasizing on the impact of the project to the inhabitants of the facility, charged the staff of the CRARN to use the project judiciously and guide against vandalism in the area.
“Take ownership of the project and guide against any act of vandalism in the area,” she said.
Odungide said the association had inaugurated projects across the state, adding that the solar power system in Eket, was to crown it all.
“I want to thank the association, Houston chapter, for standing strong, together and firm, it wouldn’t be possible for us to give light, hope and future to the children,” she said.
The President and Chief Executive Officer of CRARN, Mr. Sam Itauma, said the project would not only illuminate a future for the children but would take a monumental step towards sustainability.
“A future where hope shines brighter, where possibilities are limitless and where the children of the centre would live and learn in dignity.
“No longer will these children sit in the dark when the sun sets. No longer will their education be disrupted by power outages. No longer will their daily lives be dictated by the instability of conventional energy sources.
Itauma, who commended the association for their unwavering commitment to humanity, said, “This is not just an energy project – it is empowerment. It is freedom. It is a promise that these children deserve the same opportunity as every other child in this state, in this country, and beyond.”
In her remarks, the wife of Eket Council Chairman, Mrs. Maryann Tommey, commended for installing a solar power system at the CRARN centre in Eket. She added that the association’s action has proven their love for their immediate community in spite of their geographical location.
Tommey, represented by the Vice Chairman of the Council, Mrs. Inyang Akpawan, said the AIWA has given hope of a brighter future to the children at the CRARN centre.