Solar-powered Ice-Block Factory 

Individual or Group Name: Mao Sara Collective

Mao Sara, Chad

Members::

Female

1. Aïcha Mahamat Abdoulaye  25years
2. Fatima Kimboutou Youssouf    24years
3. Amira Abakar Oumar  27years
4. Rokaya Djibrine Kollé  28years
5. Mouna Ali Mahamat  27years
6. Amina Gali Gata 32years
7. Halima Brahim Haggar 29years
8. Zara Hassan Abakar 21years
9. Noura Idriss Déby 30years

Male
1. Mahamat Abakar 17 years
2. Youssouf Koussou     15years
3. Abdelkarim Djerou  14 years
4. Amine Hassan 14years
5. Oumar Mbaïdoum 18years
6. Ali Guedmbaye  18years
7. Moussa Fadoul  14years
8. Hassan Mahamat  14years
9. Abdoulaye Nodji  13years

Email:   idreesnoura0@gmail.com

Phone: +2357034283311

What does humanism mean to you?

We are a group of young boys and girls embarking on a transformative journey, driven by a deep longing for a more compassionate and just world. As we struggle with the troubles of growing up in a region marked by poverty, inequality, and limited opportunities, we are finding solace in the principles of humanism. Humanism to us is illuminating a path forward, guiding us to embrace the power of reason, science, and critical thinking. This our newfound understanding is empowering us to challenge harmful traditions and beliefs, and to instead cultivate a culture of inclusivity, empathy, and love.

As we gather together, sharing stories and experiences, we are forming a community that is unapologetically committed to the values of humanism. We are learning to see the good in each other, and to recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. In our local community, We gradually are discovering that humanism is not just a philosophy, but a way of life - a call to live with intention, purpose, and compassion. And as we embark on this journey together, we are becoming the change we wish to see in the world, creating a brighter future for Ourselves and for generations to come.

Our local group of boys and girls in Mao, Chad is embracing humanism and also applying as a partner to HuMAN as a response to the social, economic, and cultural challenges we face in their daily lives. Growing up in a region affected by poverty, inequality, and limited access to education and opportunities, We are seeking a values-based approach that emphasizes:

1. Empowerment: Humanism offers a framework for self-empowerment, encouraging individuals to take control of our lives and create positive change.

2. Critical thinking: Humanism promotes critical thinking, helping us question traditional beliefs and practices that may perpetuate inequality and injustice.

3. Inclusivity: Humanism values diversity and promotes inclusivity, providing a sense of belonging and acceptance for individuals from diverse backgrounds.

4. Reason and science: Humanism encourages the use of reason and science to address problems, rather than relying on superstition or dogma.

5. Compassion and empathy: Humanism fosters compassion and empathy, helping us build stronger, more supportive communities.

By embracing humanism, our local group is seeking to create a more just, equitable, and compassionate society, where individuals can thrive and reach their full potential.

Project Description

The Moa Sara Humanist Collectives in Mao Sara, Chad, propose to use a $700 donation from HuMAN to establish a small-scale solar-powered ice-block factory that will support livelihoods, meet local needs, and promote long-term sustainability. Due to limited access to electricity and high temperatures in the region, ice is in constant demand for food preservation, cooling drinking water, and supporting small businesses. The project will use solar panels to power a freezer or ice-block machine, making it affordable, environmentally friendly, and suitable for local conditions. The factory will be collectively owned and managed by Humanist members, creating income opportunities, shared employment, and skills development. Ice blocks produced will be sold locally at accessible prices, benefiting households, food vendors, and traders, while profits will be reinvested into maintenance and future community initiatives. By relying on renewable energy and collective management, this project will reduce dependence on external aid, strengthen economic resilience, and help the Moa Sara Humanist community move toward self-sufficiency and sustainable development.

Budget

● Solar panels (basic capacity for small freezer operation) – $250

● Solar charge controller – $50

● Deep-cycle battery for energy storage – $120

● Ice-block freezer / chest freezer – $200

● Electrical cables, mounting materials, and accessories – $50

● Ice-block molds and basic containers – $30

Total Budget: $700

Estimated Profit

The solar-powered ice-block factory is expected to produce an average of 40 ice blocks per day. Each ice block will be sold at an estimated local price of $0.25 per block. This results in a daily income of about $10. Over one month (approximately 30 days), the estimated income will be $300. Because the system is solar-powered, daily operating costs are very low, mainly limited to minor maintenance and water, estimated at $40 per month. This leaves an estimated net monthly profit of about $260. At this rate, the initial $700 investment can be recovered within 3 months, after which profits will support group members and future community projects.

Sustainability Impact

The income generated will be shared among Humanist members involved in the project, while a portion will be saved for equipment maintenance, battery replacement, and possible expansion. This ensures the project remains operational long-term without reliance on external funding.

Estimated Timeline of Completion

● Purchase of equipment and materials: 1–2 weeks

● Installation of solar panels and freezer setup: 1 week

● Testing, training of members, and start of production: 1 week

Total estimated project completion time: 3–4 weeks from receipt of funds.

Benefits to your Community

 Provides a steady source of income for members of the Moa Sara Humanist Collectives

Creates small-scale employment opportunities in production, sales, and management

Improves food and water preservation, especially during hot seasons

Supports local food vendors, farmers, and small businesses with affordable ice

Reduces dependence on unreliable electricity and fuel through use of solar energy

Promotes environmental sustainability by using clean, renewable power

Strengthens community cooperation through collective ownership and shared responsibility

Enhances financial self-reliance and reduces long-term dependence on external aid

Builds practical skills in basic business management and solar technology

Contributes to overall community well-being and resilience in Mao Sara, Chad