Malawi: 19-year-old school dropout invents air-powered generator to give his community electricity

Ernest Andrew, an ingenious entrepreneur from Chinguwo Village in Malawi, has awed many with his clever solution to his nation’s energy problems. Using locally found materials and recycled parts, 19-year-old Andrew has built his own air-powered generator that runs on compressed air that is directed through a sequence of turbines and generators to provide clean, renewable energy with little effect on the environment.

The teen spent months experimenting in his makeshift workshop, eventually refining his design after much trial and error, and subsequently creating a prototype that surpassed his wildest expectations, according to Africa Global News.

He expressed, “After seeing the struggles my community faced due to lack of electricity, I knew I had to do something. I believed that with a bit of creativity and hard work, I could make a difference.” 

He reportedly dropped out of school in 2018 due to financial difficulties, according to VOA. His mother, Evelyn Chinguwo, is hoping that others who see his vision and innate talent can support him in pursuing his studies and artistic endeavors.

Since revealing his innovation, Andrew has earned fame in Chinguwo Village as a local hero, with his air-powered generator serving as the community’s lifeline for electricity. Nine homes in his community are now lit around the clock, leaving his neighbors amazed and hoping that his ingenuity reaches them all.

He intends to expand his concept, nevertheless, to help even more underprivileged areas in Malawi and abroad, with the help of international organizations and local authorities.

Director of Planning and Development Mercy Mpakule indicated that the lower district has provided supplies and training to ensure Andrew can work securely.

Still, Andrew said he is not finished and that he is already working on another project. “I am also working on a generator to pump water at a distance of 200 meters. I am planning to extend the electricity to the school for easy access and study. I will do this,” he disclosed.

As Malawi grapples with energy issues, Andrew’s air-powered generator is a bright illustration of the transformative power of local creativity.