Panafrican News Agency

ECA, WFP to boost food security in Madagascar

Cotonou, Benin (PANA) - The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have opted to strengthen food security through renewable energy in Madagascar, according to a press release from the two institutions.

The ECA-WFP initiative is expected to have a significant impact in Madagascar, refining WFP's business models, broadening strategies and strengthening financial and regulatory frameworks.

It builds on best practice and strengthens local capacity to rapidly deploy clean energy solutions, with the aim of improving food security and reshaping the rural landscape.

Discussions between experts from the two institutions highlighted initiatives in favour of rural electrification and explored collaborations with agencies such as the Rural Electricity Development Agency (ADER) and the National Institute of Statistics.

Current challenges in rural energy deployment and tender management processes were discussed and the contributions of the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) to rural growth through electrification initiatives were also highlighted.

Dialogue with ADER on tendering processes and risk mitigation tools was noted, with a focus on progress on mini-grid connections and rural electrification that could benefit Madagascar.

-0- PANA IT/JSG/SOC/BBA/RA 29March2024