£340k grant for ethical biofuels in Malawi
Monday, 20 October 2008A project to develop ethical biofuels to southern Malawi has been awarded over £340,000 by the Scottish government.
Climate Futures is one of the four partners awarded the grant for 'Thriving JANEEMO Communities' in the Lower Shire district of Chikwawa, Southern Malawi. The groundbreaking programme, led by the Macaulay Institute and involving Entech and Environment Africa, will involve thousands of farmers and villagers. It will run for at least three years.
Jatropha, an oil-bearing plant, will be processed to produce biofuels for lamps and generators. Two other crops, neem and moringa, will be grown in combination and used for agricultural fertiliser and medicine. The three bushes, collectively known as JANEEMO, grow on marginal land, and do not displace food crops.
Climate Futures will help develop the programme's strategy, business plan and carbon finance. It will also commission a film and educational materials for Scottish school children.
Scottish government minister for Europe, External Affairs and Culture Linda Fabiani said:
'By supporting these projects, Scotland is contributing to the global fight against poverty. The projects focus on sustainable economic growth and building the skills and capacity of Malawi to grow and prosper.'
Thriving JANEEMO communities is strongly supported by the Government of Malawi and local communities.