Nairobi — ChildFund International and Schneider Electric have signed a four-year partnership to develop renewable energy projects in underserved communities across Africa and Asia.

The projects will target schools, health centres, smallholder farmers and micro-enterprises, with the two organisations working together to design and implement clean energy solutions.

The partnership will initially cover Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Zambia, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Guinea and The Gambia in Africa, as well as Indonesia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and India in Asia.

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The projects will focus on community development, agriculture, education, skills development, entrepreneurship, healthcare and humanitarian response.

ChildFund Chief Impact and Innovation Officer Karen Hanrahan said reliable electricity was important for access to healthcare and education.

"We rarely talk about energy as a children's issue, but it should be one of the first things we discuss. A clinic without reliable power cannot safely refrigerate vaccines," said Hanrahan.

Schneider Electric will provide technical support, renewable energy products and training in electrical skills, system operation and maintenance.

ChildFund will conduct community needs assessments and consultations with young people and communities, as well as work with local communities and government institutions.

Schneider Electric Vice President for Access to Energy Jamal Safiulla said the partnership would combine renewable energy solutions with community-based projects.

"Access to reliable electricity is a catalyst for better education, healthcare, livelihoods, and improved socio-economic conditions. Through our partnership with ChildFund, we are combining clean energy solutions with deep community engagement to create lasting impact for children and families," said Safiulla.