In a landmark effort to enhance sustainable energy access, Madagascar has officially launched a new bioethanol initiative in collaboration with Africa50, the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the OPEC Fund for International Development. The partners signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) aimed at significantly increasing bioethanol production while improving access to clean cooking fuels across the nation, particularly in remote and underserved regions.
This initiative is a critical response to the pressing need to reduce reliance on high-polluting fossil fuels, which pose serious health risks and contribute to environmental degradation. By promoting bioethanol as a cleaner alternative, the project seeks to mitigate indoor air pollution, which disproportionately affects women and children—groups that are often the most vulnerable to the negative impacts of harmful cooking fuels.
Africa50 will spearhead the development of the necessary infrastructure for bioethanol production and distribution, while the AfDB and the OPEC Fund will provide essential technical expertise and financial resources to support the Madagascar government in this ambitious endeavor. The collaborative effort aims to not only enhance energy security but also create new economic opportunities for local communities.
The LOI was signed by key representatives, including Olivier Jean Baptiste, Madagascar’s Minister of Energy and Hydrocarbons; Khaled Al-Zayer, OPEC Fund Public Sector Director for East and Southern Africa; Alain Ebobissé, CEO of Africa50; and Kevin Kariuki, AfDB Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate, and Green Growth. Their involvement underscores the importance of collective action in addressing energy and environmental challenges.
Minister Baptiste highlighted the initiative’s transformative potential, stating, “The widespread use of harmful fuels in Madagascar poses significant challenges to health, gender equality, and climate resilience. This partnership represents a significant step towards increasing access to clean cooking fuels, ultimately protecting the health and well-being of our citizens. Investing in bioethanol production will pave the way for a more sustainable future for Madagascar.”
As this initiative progresses, it is expected to play a vital role in reshaping Madagascar’s energy landscape, improving public health outcomes, and supporting broader climate action goals throughout the region.
