The European Union (EU) Ambassador to Malawi, Daniel Aristi-Gaztelumendi, expressed EU’s commitment to advancing renewable energy in the country, particularly through the Energizing Development (EnDev) project, which aims to strengthen the market for climate-friendly technologies such as solar solutions to benefit agricultural enterprises and small- to medium-scale businesses.
Ambassador Aristi-Gaztelumendi made the remarks on Monday in Lilongwe during a high-level event marking the EU Green Diplomacy Week 2025, held in collaboration with the German Government and the Ministry of Natural Resources, Mining and Energy, which also saw the launch of the Productive Use of Renewable Energy Roadmap, developed under the Renewable Energy Industries Association of Malawi (REIAMA).
Aristi-Gaztelumendi underscored the importance of private sector involvement in achieving the country’s energy goals, particularly the target of reaching 70% electricity access under the Malawi Energy Compact Strategy.
“Renewable energy is a cornerstone of economic growth, energy security, and environmental sustainability. These solutions are vital not only for addressing climate change but also for building resilience in local communities and expanding energy access, including in remote areas,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy, Andreas Hartmann, said both the EnDev program and the Productive Use of Energy Roadmap would empower Malawians through innovation and clean energy.
Hartmann added that the EU in collaboration with Germany government has contributed €5 million to support the implementation of the EnDev project, which runs from 2023 to 2026, describing it as a tangible example of how effective partnerships can create local opportunities.
"The roadmap provides a strategic framework to accelerate the use of renewable technologies and enhance livelihoods, "said Hartmann.
On his part Saidi Banda, who is Deputy Director for Off-Grid Electrification in the Ministry of Natural Resources, Mining and Energy, said Malawians have increasingly embraced diversified power sources as currently Malawi relies on hydro for about 80% of its electricity but is investing in other alternatives.
Banda commended the growing adoption of renewable energy, revealing that 101 megawatts of solar power have been added to the national generation capacity, reflecting significant progress toward meeting electricity demand.
On her part Joy Hayley Munthali, Founder of the Green Girls Platform, said the Energize Her initiative is helping inspire and empower more women and young people to take part in clean energy entrepreneurship and called for continued support to increase women’s participation in the sector.
The event comes ahead of COP30, which begins on 10 November 2025 in Brazil, where the EU is expected to continue championing global climate action as part of its pursuit to become the first climate-neutral continent by 2050.
