Arrow Electronics is helping nonprofit partner Close the Gap (CTG) launch a new program in Africa to convert used cargo containers into fully equipped classrooms and health clinics.Nobel Peace Laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a longtime advisor to CTG, endorsed the new program, along with 300 executives from the European Union, the government of Brussels and corporations in a Nov 19th ceremony marking CTG’s 10th anniversary.As part of the initiative, Arrow will sponsor the development and deployment of a Digitruck, a mobile solar-powered unit for use in villages off the electricity grid. The unit is scheduled to go into service in the second half of 2015, probably in Tanzania.
Arrow Electronics is helping nonprofit partner Close the Gap (CTG) launch a new program in Africa to convert used cargo containers into fully equipped classrooms and health clinics.
Nobel Peace Laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a longtime advisor to CTG, endorsed the new program, along with 300 executives from the European Union, the government of Brussels and corporations in a Nov 19th ceremony marking CTG’s 10th anniversary.
As part of the initiative, Arrow will sponsor the development and deployment of a Digitruck, a mobile solar-powered unit for use in villages off the electricity grid. The unit is scheduled to go into service in the second half of 2015, probably in Tanzania.
“It’s a fantastic development and a wonderful birthday present for Close the Gap,” Archbishop Tutu said.
With Arrow’s help, Close the Gap bridges the digital divide in developing nations by distributing high-quality refurbished computers and other equipment to schools, clinics and microfinance organizations, as well as establishing environmentally responsible e-waste facilities. Since 2004, the partnership has processed 440,000 computers from companies and reached 1.5 million users.
“Arrow guides innovators forward to a better tomorrow — not only in electronics, but in collaborations with innovative humanitarian partners like Close the Gap,” said Joe Verrengia, Arrow’s director of Corporate Social Responsibility. “The Digitruck is a compelling example of how together we can provide creative and sustainable solutions in emerging markets where the needs are greatest.”
The Digitruck is based on a 40-foot steel cargo container. It is triple-insulated to protect against tropical heat, and fitted with steel doors and window shutters to deter vandalism. Energy-saving technologies include LED interior lighting and a rooftop solar power system that can power the unit for two days. Added electronics include refurbished laptops, mobile devices, an LED flat screen monitor, a printer, two routers and two solid state drives. The entire unit is fitted to a commercial truck and trailer unit.
Arrow is the first company to sponsor a Digitruck. After the CTG anniversary event, three additional companies and government organizations pledged to sponsor additional units. Combined with a prototype unveiled at the Brussels announcement, the Digitruck fleet will include at least five units next year.
Published Nov 26, 2014 6pm EST / 3pm PST / 11pm GMT / 12am CET