Albert Ahabwe

Kampala, Uganda- Technology company Philips has introduced solar floodlights mostly used by sports facilities or event organisers.
The solar-powered LED floodlighting can illuminate areas of up to 800 square metres with bright white light. Advanced battery cells provide up to eight hours of floodlighting on a single solar charge - the equivalent of two or three full evening football matches or training sessions. The system is also highly sustainable, with a rugged design able to withstand the rigors of life in some of the more challenging and remote terrains in the world.
During their Kenya launch, Philips donated four sets of the solar flood lights to Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA) at an energy packed sports event that saw eight teams from Mathare zone battle it out in the night using the flood lights.
"This is a fantastic initiative," says Kanu, the Nigerian international footballer, who is working with Philips to promote the floodlighting system around the world. "Football is a universal language, especially in Africa. Enabling children and adults to be active in playing football and other sports, even once the sun goes down, will enrich their lives, their health and their well-being considerably."
"Our new solar-powered LED floodlighting solution is a wonderful example of Philips� application of meaningful innovation based on our insight and understanding of people�s needs," says Marc de Jong, CEO of the Professional Luminaries business of Philips Lighting. "I am extremely proud of our expertise in LED lighting and sports lighting in particular, helping to bring the fun and enjoyment of sports to communities where a lack of electricity limits participation."
The company is yet to set up an office in Kampala although the facility can be obtained at between Shs800,000 ($390) and Shs1m ($487).
The Philips team trained two MYSA staff and one volunteer on how to assemble the lights. According to MYSA officials and youth, the solar flood lights will be instrumental in developing sports in the Mathare and other parts of the country.
Ugandans can now order the new solar LED floodlighting system from Philips on a project basis. Philips can provide a total solution including the LED floodlights, portable poles, solar panels and batteries, or just a set of floodlights. The system can also be used for non-sporting applications in locations without access to an electricity grid, such as evening classes in remote villages, safety and security, shops or outdoor markets, or emergency lighting for disaster situations.