Government says the launch of the ‘Kupha Makwacha ndi Solar’ campaign represents a major step towards achieving 70 percent electricity access by 2030.
The initiative, unveiled at Nsungwi Market in Area 25, Lilongwe, is implemented under the ‘Putting Energy to Work’ project by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), with support from the European Union and the German Government, in partnership with the Ministry of Energy and the Rural Electrification Agency.
Energy Officer in the Department of Energy, Enoch Palapandu, said the programme supports Malawi’s Energy Compact and encourages productive use of solar technologies.
‘This initiative is very important. It is not only about lighting but also about productive use, where citizens can generate income and contribute to economic development,’ Palapandu said.
Palapandu explained that solar-powered water pumps, refrigeration systems, fishing lights and back-up solutions will strengthen micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Deputy Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy, Susanne Meltl, said: ‘Currently, fewer than three in ten Malawians have access to energy. Germany and the EU are committed to supporting Malawi’s transition to clean, reliable and sustainable energy.’
Linking these remarks, Palapandu emphasised that durable and affordable solar products will help entrepreneurs reduce operational costs, improve reliability and increase income, supporting broader economic growth.
The awareness campaign will run through radio, television, social media, roadshows and live demonstrations. To date, ten companies have been supported, with the goal of enabling 550 MSMEs to adopt certified solar technologies nationwide.
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