1. How it began
After liberation, Mala Rohan was left with damaged infrastructure and unlit streets. Darkness restricted evening life. Older people and people with disabilities were effectively isolated at home, while parents feared letting children go out after sunset.
The “Vilkhivka Recovery Community Initiative” group joined AMI to restore a basic sense of safety and peace of mind.
2. Results
The team purchased six modern solar-powered LED streetlights with metal poles. Autonomous lighting operates independently of scheduled or emergency power cuts. The initiative directly benefited 270 residents and gave 85 families greater confidence in their loved ones’ safety.
The project’s positive effects reached more than 300 residents.
3. Challenges and achievements
The initially selected lamps were unsuitable for street lighting, so the team consulted specialists and revised the order. Power cuts at the supplier delayed production of poles and anchor assemblies. Equipment arrived in January during heavy snow and persistent frost.
To ensure safe installation, the village council postponed final work until warmer weather. All materials were delivered and formally transferred to the local authority.
4. Community impact
Autonomous lighting offers hope to people exhausted by war. Residents saw that active citizens can improve local conditions themselves. Lit streets will encourage neighbours to meet and reconnect.
Adults will be able to move around the village more safely, while children can enjoy outdoor play in the evening.
5. The project’s legacy
The community gained confidence in its own capacity. Overcoming logistical and administrative obstacles strengthened the initiative group and gave residents experience of implementing innovative energy-independent solutions.
Mala Rohan’s cohesive community is ready to continue its recovery and development.
6. Who makes change happen
The project was implemented by the Local Initiatives Agency at residents’ initiative and with local authority support. Mini-grants are part of “Strengthening Community Resilience through the Community-Led Initiatives Support Approach”, financed by the Swiss humanitarian organisation HEKS/EPER and coordinated with the Alliance for Public Health.
