Marie Louise Schmidt Rasoamanahirana, a Malagasy entrepreneur, has been recognized as the best innovative entrepreneur at the third "Women in Business" award in May. Her company, Biogasikara Energy, aims to revolutionize the energy sector in Madagascar, which is still largely dominated by men. With a strong passion for sustainable energy, Rasoamanahirana is determined to make a difference in her country.
The energy sector in Madagascar is rich in opportunities, but it remains under-exploited due to unclear investment regulations. This has hindered the sector's development, making it crucial for women to get involved and drive industrialization. Rasoamanahirana's journey began with her involvement in the Groupement des femmes entrepreneures de Madagascar (GFEM), which promotes entrepreneurship and provided her with basic training on renewable energy.
In 2019, Rasoamanahirana founded Biogasikara Energy, which focuses on collecting and transforming waste into combustible briquettes. This innovative approach aims to provide an alternative to traditional firewood and charcoal, reducing deforestation and promoting sustainable energy. The company's products include briquettes made from waste wood, which can be used by industries, hotels, and households.
Biogasikara Energy's production process involves collecting waste, drying and sorting, and compacting it into briquettes. The company's goal is to produce 300 tonnes of briquettes per month, with a current production rate of 90 tonnes. Rasoamanahirana is confident that her business will reach its target and make a significant impact on the environment and local communities.
The company has already gained traction, with industries such as essential oils and textiles showing interest in using Biogasikara Energy's briquettes. The hotel industry is also exploring the use of sustainable fuels, and there is high demand from households across the country. Rasoamanahirana's business is creating jobs, particularly for vulnerable women, who are involved in collecting waste and transporting it to the production site.
As a woman in a male-dominated sector, Rasoamanahirana has faced challenges, but she has received support from various institutions and programs. She was selected for a leadership training program at the Centre régional de leadership in Dakar, which has helped her develop her skills and confidence. Rasoamanahirana believes that women's involvement in entrepreneurship is increasing, but access to financing remains a significant challenge.
Biogasikara Energy plans to expand its operations to other regions of Madagascar, aiming to make a significant impact on the environment and local communities. With her innovative approach and determination, Rasoamanahirana is paving the way for sustainable energy in Madagascar and inspiring other women to follow in her footsteps.
Key points
- Marie Louise Schmidt Rasoamanahirana wins innovative entrepreneur award with Biogasikara Energy.
- Biogasikara Energy provides sustainable energy solutions through waste transformation.
- Women’s involvement is crucial for industrialization and job creation in Madagascar's energy sector.
