Solar-Powered Energy Hub Unveiled by USAID and Power Africa
USAID Madagascar and Power Africa have launched a solar-powered energy hub in Ambohimandroso, Madagascar, to boost small businesses in the region. This initiative aims to promote economic growth and development in the area. The launch event on Tuesday, was attended by key dignitaries, including US Ambassador Claire A. Pierangelo, USAID Madagascar Mission Director Michele Russell, and Madagascar’s Minister of Energy and Hydrocarbons Olivier Jean-Baptiste.
The newly introduced solar-powered kiosk is expected to improve the lives of 1,200 households in five villages. Equipped with various machines, the hub will provide essential services, including rice processing, water pumping, grain milling, welding, and processing of local products like coffee, fruits, and honey.
Additionally, it can support other rural entrepreneurial ventures by powering a small business hub that offers services like solar light rental, phone charging, printing, internet access, and sewing.
USAID Mission Director Michele Russell emphasized that the project’s success will showcase the power of partnerships and their collective commitment to promoting renewable energy solutions in Madagascar. Russell expressed excitement about the hub’s potential to drive economic growth and enhance livelihoods in Ambohimandroso.
Power Africa is a US government initiative aimed at increasing access to affordable and reliable electricity in sub-Saharan Africa. By 2030, the initiative seeks to add 30,000 megawatts of new power generation and connect 60 million homes and businesses to electricity, driving economic growth, job creation, improved health, and environmental sustainability.