Lurgan Lights project launched

The Lurgan Lights project has been launched by Soroptomists International Lurgan branch to mobilise the talents and skills of members and the local community to make a real difference to the lives of girls in Zambia, many of whom have to walk eight miles home from school in fading light.

The three-year Lurgan Lights programme will address this in Zambia by providing villages with solar lights which are an easy way to provide lighting in areas that are not served by electricity.

Having access to lighting once the sun has set will provide many benefits to the girls of Zambia, not least allowing them to study and gain an education. SI Lurgan is partnering with Camfed who provide bursaries for girls in Zambia so they can access education.

A spokesperson for Lurgan Soroptomists said: “Lurgan Lights will help in three ways: we will link with schools to provide solar lights for girls to use whilst studying; the local community advisors will identify girls in greatest need, typically those preparing for exams; this will increase awareness of the importance of girls accessing education; and the lights are being sourced from a Zambian supplier so it will reduce the costs of shipping and contribute to the local economy.”

To launch the programme SI Lurgan are hosting a Murder Mystery evening with a Titanic theme on Friday, November 9 in Brownlow House presented by the Cregagh Players. Tickets cost £25 and include a sit-down meal. They can be obtained from the coffee shop in Brownlow House which is open 10am to 3pm every day.