The Phemba Umlilo solar light is a light designed specifically for the informal community of Alexandra, Johannesburg, South Africa.

 

Research was conducted in order to come up with the best solutions in terms of what the light needs to achieve based on the requirements and problems of the community.

 

The design was inspired by the African calabash fruit, a symbol for water and life. The design now replaces water being symbolic for life to light being symbolic for life. The name “Phemba Umlilo” means the act of creating a fire, an inspiration.

 

Packaging design and a working prototype was also created as part of the project.