With plans to be in Rwanda for about a week, Rick says he worked in the oil industry - which campaigners blame for climate change, for several years but chose to leave to “do something that gives back” to the community.
“1 in 4 people on this planet, including 550 million Africans living in rural areas, do not have access to electricity...[which] blocks their development,” says Rick, adding: “Renewable energy provides an affordable and eco-friendly way to improve their lives.”
As part of the 7,000 km journey from Cape Town (South Africa) to Nairobi (Kenya), Rick hopes to raise awareness for renewable energy in Africa. Armed with his bicycle, the 32-year-old wants to raise 50,000 Euros which he will use to install solar panels on schools in Zambia.
In Rwanda since Tuesday, Rick has met Dutch embassy officials including the Ambassador, and intends to meet ministry of infrastructure officials this week. “I just want to meet them to see what we can do together,” he said.
The Dutch government has partnered with the EU to finance a program that provides modern energy services and products in the east Africa region. It is supporting some 2000 micro and small energy businesses.
The Dutchman is also organizing a bicycle race scheduled for next Saturday November 28 which he hopes will bring attention to his cause. The race, not necessarily for professionals is planned to begin from Rwamagana district (East) to end in Kigali.
But why would well educated and successful European leave his comfort to ride 7,000 km? Rick says he fills the world needs to start weaning itself from things like oil which are causing global warming – thereby putting everybody at risk.
“Ghandi said ‘Be the change you wish to see’…am just trying to play my part. Instead of driving or flying, am riding, and probably somebody will start to listen,” says Rick.
As for Rwanda, Rick says he has found a country that “never to accept the status-quo”.
“This country is known in Holland for the Genocide which happened here. I have found a country which is on the move, and very first because for example it wants to have 30% people using electricity in a few years from less than 6percent.”
He narrates renewal projects he has come to learn about which are being developed in Rwanda – including forestation, solar and biogas.
“I was told the philosophy in Rwanda is cut a tree but make sure you plant one as well,” says Rick.
As to how he has managed to survive all through his journey, Rick simply says: “My faith and goodwill of the people in communities I have passed.”
For those who would like to contact him, he has a blog and site: www.solarafrica2010.org
Source RNA
Comments :
0 comments to “Ex-Shell executive in Rwanda to promote renewable energy”
Post a Comment