Malawi’s Minister for Natural Resources, Energy and Mining, Hon. Dr. Jean Mathanga, has undertaken a familiarization tour of the Electricity Generation Company (EGENCO)’s solar power plant currently under construction at Nanjoka in the Salima District.
The project, designed to generate 10 megawatts (MW) of electricity from solar energy, forms part of Malawi’s broader efforts to expand renewable energy generation and reduce dependence on hydropower.
Speaking during the visit, Dr. Mathanga reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to securing the required external financing by the end of December 2025 to enable EGENCO to complete the ongoing works.
She emphasized that the Nanjoka Solar Project represents a key milestone in the country’s energy transition and a strategic intervention to address power shortages that continue to affect industrial productivity and economic growth.
“The Government is determined to ensure that by next year, Malawi experiences a significant reduction in load shedding. Projects such as this one in Salima will help stabilize the national grid and support economic activities across various sectors,” said Dr. Mathanga.
EGENCO Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Maxon Chitawo, disclosed that approximately USD 13 million (about MK22.5 billion) is required to complete the first phase of the solar project.
He further noted that the company’s long-term vision is to scale up generation capacity to 50 MW in order to contribute meaningfully to the diversification of Malawi’s power generation mix.
Salima District Commissioner, Mr. James Mwenda, commended the project, noting that it has already benefited the local community by providing employment opportunities to residents in surrounding areas.
Once completed, the Nanjoka Solar Power Plant will enhance EGENCO’s generation capacity, improve power reliability, and contribute to the achievement of national energy access targets under the Malawi 2063 development agenda.
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