tawandamusarurwa
Youth Buzz
Fatima Bulla-Musakwa
WHEN 33-year-old Benadette Tuso’s parents installed a 3kva solar system, they were told it could not support a stove.
But she could not readily accept this.
She started exploring if it was possible to develop an energy-efficient stove that could be operated by the same solar system.
Her ingenious effort resulted in the birth of the green orange renewable power technology stove, which is aesthetically designed and has simple touch screen buttons.
For safety, it uses induction technology, which means it only heats metal, thereby reducing the risk of fire.
It also has a child lock, and automatically shuts off after one hour of uninterrupted use.
The stove draws very little power but cooks quickly and efficiently.
Its energy-efficient capabilities make it suitable for low-income households.
“The most important feature is that it is an energy saver. The ability of the GOPT stove to be powered by solar systems makes it eco-friendly,” said Ms Tuso.
“It will reduce deforestation once scaled right across the nation, especially in rural areas. The GOPT stove will also help people save money because they will be able to cook for free using sunlight.”
Being an accountant by profession did not limit her as she managed to come up with a life-transforming innovation.
After developing the concept, she approached a reputable manufacturing company for assistance.
Seeing the inherent potential of the project, the company did not hesitate to join forces.
In the past two years, Ms Tuso has produced over 1 000 stoves, which have all been sold out.
Although there is a cash-back guarantee for displeased customers, no one has returned the product to date.
“The most amazing part is that it uses electricity. Even if you do not have a solar system right away, you can begin to enjoy a reduced electricity bill once you make the switch to the GOPT stove.
“You will be able to save more than 50 percent of your hard-earned money. It is just like switching from 100watt bulbs to 5w energy-saver bulbs,” she added.
Her desire is to raise enough capital to build a manufacturing plant in Zimbabwe, where the concept and design originated.
Born in Chitungwiza, Ms Tuso was raised by her grandmother in Masvingo as her parents had to move abroad, where her father had been granted a scholarship.
Her father is a quantity surveyor, while her grandmother ran a commuter omnibus business.
“I always wanted to be an entrepreneur and was always looking for an idea that was going to set me apart. I didn’t want to be doing what everyone was doing.
‘‘When this eureka idea stuck after l installed that solar system, l didn’t stop until it came to life. I got hold of a manufacturer online and begged them to take my project. When they agreed, l was over the moon,” she said.
Twitter: @BullaFatima
Online Reporter