Impact Of Tablets & Solar Power in Ethiopia
/Last July, Global Cross announced we were taking light and power to Ethiopia. The project called for the distribution of Parchment tablets and Firefly solar chargers to Doctor of Ministry students. Each tablet was loaded with the ministry resources needed for their own growth but also to assist in their discipleship efforts. The solar charger enabled them to go throughout Ethiopia. We partnered with AEG International, SIM, and the Ethiopian Kale Heywet Church (EKHC) to make this a reality.
It has been eight months since we returned from Ethiopia and wanted to share some of the information and photos we have received.
“The tablets distribution process have been successful. Last weekend we traveled to Wolayita to distribute tablets for those who are living outside from Addis Ababa. It is located South Western Ethiopia and about 340kms from Addis, capital of Ethiopia. Students came to Wolayita from different directions: Kucha, Arbaminch, Chencha, Dawuro, Durame and Shone areas. The students were very happy receiving their tablets.”
“We thank God for your ministry. The Firefly and Parchments (tablets) are working well. All doctoral students are highly appreciating Global Cross for their contribution for the sake of expansion of God’s kingdom. I am also one of EKHC BILD Doctor of Ministry students using both the Firefly and Parchment. The Firefly is producing very high power. All EKHC DMIN students are using Firefly for both purposes: for light and charging Parchments and mobile phones. We are using Parchments to read our school materials. Wherever we go now we have library in our pocket. This is our sincere appreciation for your esteemed organization. We are using all materials to glorify God and for expansion of His glorious kingdom.”
The project has been so well received EKHC and SIM have begun talking about expanding it to others within their organization and affliations.
“What would you think about a next step? We would like to inform you that EKHC has more than 9000 local church Pastors and ministers waiting for your Firefly and Parchments for their ministry.”
“What a huge blessing this is to all of the Doctor of Ministry students. Sounds like all the EKHC pastors desire to have a Parchment and Firefly. Let’s dream together how we can keep joining the Lord in advancing His cause in equipping HIS church.”
Representatives of Global Cross, EKHC, SIM, and AEG International in Addis Ababa in August 2016.
Global Cross and SIM had a follow-up trip to Ethiopia in early April where we met with the EKHC again. The Kale Heywet Church believes this program is "clearly from God" and want to march ahead with a project that includes the following:
- 9,000 of their pastors and ministers.
- More than one hundred Amharic Bible schools.
- Four or five theological colleges.
This initiative could encompass more than 20,000 people in all. We have begun work by researching specifications for the next Parchment tablet, testing a sample tablet, and communicating with our technology manufacturers. Global Cross will continue to walk it out while seeking the Lord's direction. We also thank Him for including us in such exciting work.
