Minister of Energy Ibrahim Matola has asked for financial support from the Indian Government towards green and clean energy in Malawi.
Speaking in New Delhi, India on Friday during the 18th Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)-Exim Bank Conclave on India–Africa Growth Partnership, the minister said this will be critical to ensure that Malawi produces enough electricity for both domestic and industrial use.
In a speech made available to Business News, Matola commended India for showing interest to invest in green and clean energy in African countries, including Malawi.
He said: “Energy is the lifeblood of any nation’s development and it plays a crucial role in driving economic growth, ensuring social progress and improving the quality of life for our citizens.
“Malawi, like many African countries, recognises the urgent need to address the challenges posed by lack of energy security in the face of a rapidly changing world.”
He decried the devastating impact of natural disasters such as cyclones on electricity generation, citing Tropical Storm Ana and Cyclone Freddy.
In January 2022, Tropical Storm Ana damaged Kapichira Hydro Power Plant, taking off 130 megawatts from the national grid.
CII Green Business Council executive director Kramadhati SivaramakrishnanVenkatagiri, who was the session moderator, said the Conclave aims to strengthen the economic partnership between India and Africa and foster collaboration between businesses from both regions.
“It is an excellent opportunity for African businesses to showcase their potential and explore avenues for collaboration with Indian counterparts,” he said.
The Conclave was held from June 14 to 16 under the theme under the theme: ‘Scalling up green and clean energy collaborations’.
Source: The Nation_Monday, June 19, 2023_by Chikondi Chiyembekeza