Following a $30,000 grant from the Science Granting Councils Initiative, the Malawi University of Science and Technology (Must) has delved into electricity generation by producing 60 kilowatts (kW) from agricultural wastes to power 400 households.

Must head of Department of Energy Resources Management John Taulo said rice husks would be used to for the project. “We have chosen rice husks for a reason. It is a menace as it causes environmental problems in terms of disposal yet that can be controlled.” said Taulo.

Meanwhile, the country could use such innovation, as the electrification rate stands at 11%, out of an 18.5 million population. The 11% mostly relies on hydro stations, as stakeholders have advised on seeking other means of electricity. Last year, German Federal Minister of Economic Cooperation and Development, Gerd Muller, said Berlin will looking into a partnership with Malawi towards boosting the country’s energy sector through bio-energy.