The presidential initiative to make access to energy universal in Mozambique by the year 2030 is changing life in rural areas.
Through the expansion of the National Electric Network (REN) and the installation of mini-grids and residential solar systems, it was possible, during 2021, to connect energy to over 309,322 new beneficiary installations, which represents a milestone in the history of electrification of the Country.
Jubilante Anabela – Zambézia Province
Before we had energy, here in the neighborhood, we lived poorly, without batteries and there were no light bulbs. Now that we have energy, we are fine; EDM helped us a lot. We watch the news, what happens in the world, we drink ice water”, said a Jubilante Anabela, one of the 33,388 new energy beneficiaries in the Province of Zambézia.
Agostinho Mucepa – Zambézia Province
Agostinho Mucepa, another new energy beneficiary in the Province of Zambézia, recalled: “Before there was energy, here in
Matete, we got grass to light up the house; Now, the Government has already given us energy and we are very grateful.
We were in darkness; It's not easy to find grass (for lighting) and always running to the city to charge your phone. We were forgotten, but now we are well assured.”
Manuel Cambra – Zambézia Province
For Manuel Cambra, the expansion of energy in the Province of Zambézia will improve his professional activity. “Before, our life was difficult, we had problems charging our phones, welding, because we had to walk 6 to 7 km. At this moment, when we have energy, we are fine; each person is taking the initiative to buy what they didn't expect to buy, like a freezer. I have a small welding machine, but I left it at a friend's house in the city, where I did metalwork; but, because we already have energy, I brought my machine here”.
“Before we had power, we were feeling sick, snakes would appear and we couldn’t see them; now, we are fine, we can drink cold water and sleep with light”, said, visibly happy, Jacinta Agostinho, resident in Matete, a town
located close to the Headquarters of the District of Mocuba, in Zambézia.
Jacinta Agostinho – Zambézia Province
The National Electric Grid also extended to the northwestern most district of Zambézia Province, on the border with Malawi.
Through the installation of a mini-hydro plant in the town of Berua, the Administrative Post of Majua was electrified, where Professor Jacinto Mutchicuene reminds us that “before, we, teachers, did not like living here and left our family in the Village. However, currently, it is beautiful, without the hassle of charging phones, as the system we used used to burn the device. I'm happy, I have StarTimes antenna, I watch all the news and we use computers; Above all, I already brought my family here from Vila”.
