The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) has taken a significant step forward in promoting ethanol biofuel as a clean energy source in Mozambique. In a recent event, USGC, alongside Pivot Clean Energy Co (Pivot) and the Mozambique Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy (MIREME), signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU). This agreement, witnessed by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small and U.S. Ambassador Peter H. Vrooman, aims to foster cooperation in technical expertise and policy development for the biofuels industry.
The event, titled “Fueling Forward to Sustainable Energy,” gathered Mozambican government officials, industry professionals, and stakeholders to discuss the utilization of ethanol in both cooking and transportation to achieve Mozambique's clean energy targets. This initiative aligns with Mozambique's ongoing efforts to implement a 10% ethanol mandate and develop a robust oil and agriculture economy that leverages biofuels.
USDA Deputy Secretary Torres Small highlighted the event's significance, emphasizing the role of biofuels in providing healthier cooking alternatives and combating climate change impacts through sustainable practices. The use of ethanol in household stoves, producing no soot or smoke, was a focal point, promising to reduce health risks and air pollution.
Mohamed Salah Bouthour, USGC Deputy Regional Director – Africa, expressed gratitude towards partners and emphasized the MOU's role in supporting Mozambique’s ethanol blending initiatives and clean cooking development. The collaboration aims to strengthen ties between U.S. and Mozambican biofuels experts, enhancing knowledge sharing and technical assistance.
Alicia El Mamouni, Executive Director of Pivot, noted the initiative aligns with Mozambique's Economic Stimulus Measures Package (PAE reforms) focused on biofuels development. This partnership is expected to foster clean energy solutions in transportation and cooking, potentially leading to reduced carbon emissions, improved health outcomes, and the creation of local green jobs.
The MOU reflects a concerted effort to reduce Mozambique's reliance on fuel imports and establish a sustainable market for its agricultural sector. This partnership marks a promising step towards developing the ethanol industry in Mozambique and the region, offering economic and environmental benefits.
