Youth Net and Counselling-YONECO conducted massive roadshows in Zomba and Machinga districts aiming at stimulating citizens and public engagement in Green and Inclusive Energy-GIE for sustainable development.

With support from Hivos Southern Africa, YONECO is implementing a project called: “Stimulating Citizen and Public Engagement in Green and Inclusive Energy for Sustainable Development.”

The presence of renowned artists like Blaze and Che Wikise and YFM DJs influenced the massive patronage of thousands of people.

Some of the major issues tackled during the shows include; youth and women being key in scaling up access to sustainable energy and the effects of using energy sources that are not environmental friendly.

Most of the participants were interested with the idea of embracing renewable energy technologies and its benefits saying it is one way of improving rural livelihoods while conserving the environment and fighting against climate change.

Participants had opportunities to ask questions after presentation made by Kenneth Mtago, from Renew’N’Able Malawi who presented how energy poverty has affected some sectors of development. The presentation further outlined some solutions to reduce energy poverty in health, education, environment and economic sectors.

A woman asking a question on green and inclusive energy

Some of the areas reached include; Mayaka, Thondwe, Jali, Songani and Namwera turn-off in Zomba as well as Nselema, Msanama, Liwonde, Chingale turn-off and Mangochi Turn-off, in Machinga.

YONECO is implementing the project in partnership with other organizations like Community Energy Malawi-CEM, National Association of Business Women-NABW, Malawi Health Equity Network-MHEN and Renew’N’Able Malawi-RENAMA with support from HIVOS.