I’m a PhD graduate from Malawi, and I studied Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering. My research set out to address resilience challenges in Malawi’s electrical power system – an issue that affects millions of people across the country.

Malawi faces serious challenges with energy insecurity, low energy access and a vulnerable electricity grid. These stem from over-reliance on hydro-electric generation, underdeveloped infrastructure and limited regional interconnections. Much of the ageing grid, dating back to 1966, is highly exposed to floods, droughts, storms and earthquakes, leaving the power system extremely fragile.

This poses an enormous threat to Malawi’s electric power systems and the associated socio-economic systems that depend on reliable delivery of electric power.