This is a special guest blog post from Colleen Smith, who has been on 5 trips to Nicaragua to install solar. Here, she details her latest adventures in Nicaragua installing a solar powered drip irrigation pump for a farmer.
The most rewarding aspect of this trip was meeting with the farmer and his family. Spending time with them, engaging in evening conversations, I learned about the crops, the yields, the day-to-day challenges. I also learned how an off-grid solar powered drip irrigation system would allow a consistent and efficient water supply to keep his crops watered and increase his yield and production.
When asked what he would do with the additional income, he replied he would purchase more seeds/plants to grow on his land to feed his family. Perhaps purchase another cow or pig, all in support of bettering the lives of his family. Additional income would allow him to send his young daughter to school and pay for her school supplies. A stark contrast to what we tend to spend our additional income on, such as TVs, PCs, or the next best electronic gadget, all for personal gratification.
This trip was physically challenging as we were all shoveling and digging trenches. However, we were digging those trenches alongside the farmer, his family and neighbors. We, as a community, were all invested in completing this project successfully. And we most certainly did, thanks to an amazing and dedicated group of volunteers!!
The common denominator in all of my trips has been how the Nicaraguans, in both the cities and rural communities, place a high value on the family and community environments. I think that is what made me fall in love with Nicaragua 8 years ago when I travelled there on vacation. The landscapes are lush in areas, harsh in some. Many families may lack material possessions, but they are abundant in their faith, their music, their laughter and their smiles. The land is full of history and drenched in tradition, and I can’t wait to return.