Prince Shela, a visionary young entrepreneur from Nkhata Bay district, is transforming the energy landscape with his innovative company, Shela Green Energy Solutions.
Founded in 2023, the company aims to provide sustainable energy solutions to communities, empowering youths, and promoting eco-friendly practices, Shela’s inspiration stemmed from the growing demand for renewable energy and the urgent need to reduce waste.
“I saw an opportunity to convert waste materials into valuable fuel, reducing deforestation and pollution while creating opportunities for local youths,” he explains.
Shela Green Energy Solutions utilises sawdust from local sawmills and forestry companies, such as Vizara Plantation, to produce durable briquettes,the company mixes carbonised sawdust with cassava flour, a natural binder, to create a sustainable energy source.
Shela Green Energy Solutions has achieved remarkable milestones, including training three local youths in production, partnering eight local businesses for sustainable energy solutions and obtaining certification from the government and Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA).
The company also participated in the TIPULA Zantchito EXPO, funded by the EU and UNDP.
Looking ahead, Shela aims at increasing production by 25% annually, expand market to other districts across Malawi, introduce new product lines such as pellets, collaborate with government agencies to develop sustainable energy policies and employ over 10 youths within the next two years.
Currently, Shela Green Energy Solutions generates an estimated K40,000 to 50,000 sales per week. With a team of three passionate youths volunteering in production, sales, and marketing, Shela is confident of the company’s future.
“Empowering youths and promoting sustainable energy solutions is crucial for Malawi’s development, we are committed to making a positive impact on our community and the environment,” emphasised Shela
Lizzie Banda Nkhata Bay resident has praised the company’s products.
“I have been using Shela Green Energy Solutions briquettes for cooking, and am impressed by their efficiency and cost-effectiveness,they are also environmentally friendly, which aligns with my values,” added Banda.
Meanwhile one of countries environmental activist Maloto Chinkombero has called Shelas initiative as game changer in the against climate change in the country.
