Researchers at the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa, have developed a solar-powered home - the iShack - which they hope will help tackle the problem of poverty in South Africa as well as in other countries of the world.

Designed with the key aim of bringing about an improvement in the living conditions of the shack dwellers in sub-Sahara region, the iShack - short for improved shack - has been fitted with solar panels for power and electricity. A prototype of the iShack has been erected in a settlement outside Stellenbosch; and is home to domestic worker Nosango Victoria Plaatjie and her daughter.

The solar panels of the iShack help keep three lights on at night inside the dwelling, and one motion sensitive light outside it. The panels also produce enough power for charging mobile handsets and using other essential equipment.

The iShack also has windows which are strategically positioned in such a way that air circulation can be maximized. In addition, the sloping roof of the iShack ensures the collection of rainwater. The floor of the iShack is made from bricks from a local landfill; while the wall on its back side is built from clay and hay for regulating the temperature.

It is anticipated that nearly 100 iShacks will be erected over the next one-year-period - thanks largely to a grant received from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation -, with the price of each iShack to be approximately R5,300.