Renewables Forum
The SMP Renewables Forum, was an important meeting designed to unpack the outcomes of the Malawi National Energy Conference and explore what they meant for SMP members and the broader renewable energy landscape.
This forum spotlighted key takeaways from the national conference, including policy shifts, investment opportunities, and strategic directions for sustainable energy development in Malawi. It was a chance for SMP members to align, collaborate, and contribute to the future of renewables in the region.
We heard from:
Charles Dakalira and Brave Mahonie from the Renewable Energy Industries Association of Malawi (REIAMA) will share key takeaways from this year’s National Energy Conference which, in partnership with the SG Global Renewables Centre, brought together leading voices from across Malawi’s energy sector to explore innovative solutions, inclusive policies, and community-driven approaches to sustainable energy.
Sithembile Tembo (Grid and Beyond, REIAMA) will share about integrating GESI into energy policy and practice. With case-studies of recent capacity building work by REIAMA, UNDP and University of Strathclyde, she will highlight the need for inclusive planning, gender-sensitive budgeting, and community engagement to ensure no one is left behind in Malawi’s energy future.
Brave Mahonie will present powerful stories from the Light a Village project in Kasakula. This initiative by SolarAid demonstrates how off-grid solar solutions can transform rural communities, improve livelihoods, and foster resilience. Emphasising the importance of local ownership, affordability, and innovation in reaching underserved population.
Whether you're a policymaker, investor, engineer, or advocate, this forum was a gateway to understanding and shaping the next chapter of Malawi’s energy transformation.
Recorded Video
Missed the event? Find the recording and below timestamps
00:00 Welcome remarks, Nasim Vadalia - SMP
02:10 Opening remarks, Prof Stuart Galloway - University of Strathclyde
10:14 Overview of National Energy Conference 2025, Charles Dakalira - REIAMA
25:31 Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) in the Energy Sector: Sithembile Tembo - REIAMA
45:28 Reaching the last mile - lessons from Kasakula, Brave Mahonie - SunnyMoney Malawi
01:16:02 Q & A
01:28:08 Closing remarks, Stuart Brown - SMP
