In our fight against energy poverty we, as part of the Strategic Partnership for Green and Inclusive Energy, find it a key factor to enable rural communities to understand the technical language surrounding energy. Most Malawians speak and understand the local language Chichewa but often there are no proper translations for technical terms. This leads to many people failing to fully grasp energy related issues and renewable approaches. Knowledge is power: with the creation of a Chichewa Energy Glossary that will give explanations for common energy related terms in clear, easily understandable vernacular language we strive to empower all Malawians to make decisions and use gadgets properly.

The explanations need to meet two key standards: they should be understood by an ordinary Malawian Chichewa speaker and they should be technically accurate. To make sure both is the case we have conducted field tests and consulted experts. Mid November Renew’N’Able Malawi with the help of Linguist and Environmentalism students from Chancellor College undertook a survey in Phalombe district, Zomba, Blantyre and Thyolo with separate groups of students, men and women.

Now, end November RENAMA invited to a workshop to discuss the field test findings with a diverse group of doctors from linguist and technical departments, all GIE partners, participants and conductors of the focus group discussions and representatives from the Department of Energy. We got really valuable input that will enable us to put together a final version of the glossary in only a short period of time.

We cannot wait to bring the Chichewa Energy Glossary out to the public as we believe it will be a very helpful resource to bring about change in this country. You are also going to find an online version on this website. Keep your eyes peeled! 😊