My research outcomes
I developed an integrated resilience framework with guidelines for comprehensive and inclusive resilience evaluations tailored to weak and underdeveloped electrical grids  . It shows how grid operators can improve their responses, and how Malawi’s Ministry of Energy (MoE) can do more to ensure the policy provides a conducive operating environment to foster power system infrastructure resilience. The framework also recommends ways to strengthen defences against extreme weather while maintaining the capacity to withstand other disasters.

Making an impact
One case study in my research examined how Malawi’s National Energy Policy (NEP) supported power system resilience (PSR). I identified key gaps and drafted recommendations, which I presented in a policy brief submitted to the Ministry of Energy. At the time, the 2018 NEP was overdue for review – at the inception meeting for the draft 2025 NEP, a new section of resilience objectives and strategies had been added in response to my brief.

I originally submitted the brief just to clear my conscience. Learning that my recommendations had been adopted was surreal – the best moment of my academic journey. It was proof that my work had made a tangible impact, and I felt encouraged to know that my research hadn’t gone to waste.

If implemented, the changes could expand energy access, strengthen defences against climate impacts and reduce the impact of climate change. Since Malawi’s critical infrastructure relies on a stable and constant power supply, this policy change could significantly improve national well-being on a huge scale.