In Madagascar, where over 95% of rural households lack electricity, women trained as solar technicians are lighting up villages with clean, safe energy—bringing new hope and opportunities to some of the country's most isolated communities.
- Nearly 79% of households in some villages now have solar electricity
- 131 women trained as solar technicians across 21 villages
- Program aims to reach 630,000 households by 2030
What happened
Women in rural Madagascar, trained through the Barefoot College National Programme and supported by WWF, are installing and maintaining solar energy systems in their communities. This program focuses on bringing safe, reliable electricity to villages that have depended on kerosene lamps for generations, exposing families to health risks and fire hazards.
Since the program's start, 131 women solar technicians have been trained across 21 villages, enabling nearly 79% of households in a single village to access solar power. The initiative began in 2012, with ongoing expansion supported by Madagascar's Ministry of Energy and Hydrocarbons, aiming to empower women with both technical and business skills.
Why it feels good
Replacing kerosene lamps with solar light has brought safer, cleaner illumination that benefits every household. Children can continue their studies after dark, families save money by cutting fuel costs, and health risks from smoky lamps are greatly reduced.
The program builds self-reliance by training local women—especially older women committed to their communities—who pass on their knowledge and maintain the solar systems. This lasting impact supports both social and economic development in areas where electricity has long been unavailable.
What to enjoy or watch next
The National Barefoot College Programme plans to train 744 women technicians and reach 630,000 households across Madagascar by 2030, scaling this successful model nationwide. As more communities gain reliable solar power, expect broader improvements in education, health, and local economies.
Beyond Madagascar, this empowering approach creates a blueprint for energy access and women’s empowerment worldwide, demonstrating how community-led solutions can light the way toward sustainable development and brighter futures.