CNN broadcast report on energy solutions
This week CNN is broadcasting an in-depth report on the remarkable efforts of Jiro-Ve, a Malagasy social enterprise working with Solar United Madagascar, a partnership dedicated to advancing renewable lighting and energy solutions in Madagascar. Watch it here https://youtu.be/dby1iAnjkZg
Franchisee Jean Michel Rakotonirina taking care of the solar power packs
CNN’s report highlights the innovative approach to bringing sustainable energy to remote communities across Madagascar. It showcases the partnership between Jiro-Ve, Feedback Madagascar, SEED Madagascar, and Money for Madagascar plus SolarAid to transform lives by providing reliable and clean energy. This is essential to the island’s rural communities where 90% of people cannot access electricity.
Our initiatives focus on harnessing the abundant solar energy in the region to power schools and homes. Through our work, we are reducing dependence on fossil fuels and helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
The CNN report highlights several key projects, including installing school solar systems. This provides renewable energy to power a community power bank which charges ‘solar sticks’ that families rent daily. This is cheaper and better quality than kerosene or candles, providing safe, clean light, and charging small electronic devices in homes.
The solar system can be scaled up to charge digital learning tablets for students and teachers – providing much-needed resources to improve educational standards.
Additionally, in a country where school feeding is widespread to combat child malnutrition, the solar cooking pilots programs have proven hugely successful – reducing health and environmental impacts.
“We are delighted to be featured by CNN,” said Rik Stamhuis of Solar United Madagascar. “This coverage will bring much-needed attention to the importance of renewable energy in improving the quality of education and life for people in Madagascar and in combating global climate challenges.”
Watch the CNN report here (URL to be added) to learn more about how Solar United Madagascar is lighting up lives in rural Madagascar. Contact us for more information at koloina@solarunitedmadagascar.org. You can donate here.
