We are excited to announce that both the theory and practical training sessions for the first cohort of the Eco-Briquettes Project have now come to an end!

Following the completion of the training, participants have been organized into 30 groups of ten members each. These groups now have free access to briquette-making machines located at our centres at Chitimbe CCAP in Mtsiliza and Zagwa Zatha in Mtandire, Lilongwe. This setup allows them to produce and sell eco-friendly charcoal, with all proceeds going directly to the group members.

The goal of this project is to reduce reliance on wood charcoal, combat deforestation, and promote environmental sustainability. The project offers a practical solution to energy challenges in peri-urban communities by turning organic waste into a clean and efficient source of fuel.

More importantly, this initiative is creating income-generating opportunities for local families. Apart from gaining access to an affordable, sustainable energy source, participants are also building small businesses that can uplift their households economically.

We believe this project will go a long way in economically empowering families while protecting our environment for future generations.

This initiative is made possible through funding from the Global Environmental Facility (GEF), allocated by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). We are grateful for this support as we continue to promote green livelihoods in Malawi.