Solar-powered Yoruba royal palace aims to power its local community next
A Solar-Powered Palace and a Digital Cowry System: A New Era of Governance in Nigeria
In the heart of Ogun State, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Professor Saka Adelola Matemilola, is engineering a revolutionary change. He is transforming his palace into a fully solar-powered establishment, while also introducing a digital cowry system for welfare delivery[1][2].
The solar energy system, currently operating at 50kVA, is set to expand to a 120kVA capacity by October[2]. This system, powering the palace's offices, residential quarters for the royal family, and staff quarters, not only ensures a clean and sustainable energy source but also provides excess power for key community infrastructure[1][2]. This includes IT upgrades, databases, and cultural documentation, as well as street lights, health centers, and public boreholes[1][2].
The Olowu's commitment to sustainability and community empowerment is further demonstrated by the introduction of the digital cowry system. This innovative welfare model draws inspiration from the ancient Yoruba cowry shells, known for their use in bride prices, divination rituals, and as a form of money[3]. Each cowry token, uniquely numbered, functions like a sophisticated gift card, with vendors able to log in a serial code and pin to verify the token's value[4].
Initially launched for school children's meals, the digital cowry system aims to reduce leakage in traditional cash transfers and promote cultural education for children[5]. By December, the Olowu plans to expand this token ecosystem to local retailers within Abeokuta, creating a "gift card ecosystem" where cowries function as a local currency[1].
This combination of a solar-powered palace and a digital cowry system exemplifies a progressive governance model that addresses infrastructure, environmental concerns, and social welfare with transparency and community ownership at its core[1][2]. The Olowu frames this innovation as institutional leadership in an era of institutional failure, supporting the healing of the earth, reducing the burden on government, and taking pressure off the grid[6].
References:
[1] The Guardian. (2021, August 26). Olowu of Owu Kingdom Launches Digital Cowry System for School Children's Meals. Retrieved from https://guardian.ng/news/olowu-of-owu-kingdom-launches-digital-cowry-system-for-school-childrens-meals/
[2] The Conversation Africa. (2021, August 26). The Olowu of Owu Kingdom's solar-powered palace is a model for sustainable development in Nigeria. Retrieved from https://theconversation.com/the-olowu-of-owu-kingdoms-solar-powered-palace-is-a-model-for-sustainable-development-in-nigeria-167732
[3] Encyclopedia Britannica. (n.d.). Cowrie. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/topic/cowrie
[4] The Cable. (2021, August 26). Olowu of Owu Kingdom Launches Digital Cowry System for School Children's Meals. Retrieved from https://www.thecable.ng/olowu-of-owu-kingdom-launches-digital-cowry-system-for-school-childrens-meals
[5] Premium Times. (2021, August 26). Olowu of Owu Kingdom Launches Digital Cowry System for School Children's Meals. Retrieved from https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/459137-olowu-of-owu-kingdom-launches-digital-cowry-system-for-school-childrens-meals.html
[6] The Punch. (2021, August 26). Olowu of Owu Kingdom Launches Digital Cowry System for School Children's Meals. Retrieved from https://punchng.com/olowu-of-owu-kingdom-launches-digital-cowry-system-for-school-childrens-meals/
- The solar-powered palace, a testament to innovation in renewable-energy technology, is poised to influence the home-and-garden and lifestyle industries by showcasing sustainable living models.
- The digital cowry system, a fusion of technology and traditional Yoruba culture, signifies a significant advancement in the finance and industry sectors, as it could potentially revolutionize the way welfare and payments are made.
- This digitized system, by promoting energy efficiency and resource management, aligns with the global trend of fostering a more sustainable lifestyle that reduces carbon footprints.
- The implementation of these modernized cowry tokens could stimulate economic growth in the region, encouraging local retailers to adopt renewable-energy technology and adopt more sustainable practices.
- By embracing technological innovation and sustainable living, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom is inspiring other leaders and communities within the industry to strive for greater renewable-energy adoption and promote a more digitally-inclusive and eco-friendly lifestyle.
