Show Notes
Mackendy's Story
This episode introduces us to Mackendy, the General Manager and Cultural Liasson for JustEnergy's work in Haiti. We learn how how he lost his mother as a child amid Vodou curses, but was able to study languages and translation services. He recalls the story of a blackout during his wife's c-section, and unpacks Haitian fuel shortages, black market fuel sales, and using propane as a fuel for electricity generation.
Main Points:
Poverty is rampant and life is hard in Haiti.
Electricity is primarily generated through private generators using diesel and gasoline.
Fuel shortages exacerbated by gang violence mean even hospitals have blackouts - sometimes during surgery.
Black market fuel sales mean gasoline is like cash - but more dangerous.
Propane offers a viable alternative for electricity generation.
References:
1. E. Dupain and H. A. Alam, “Critical Haiti gas terminal freed after weeks of talks with G9 gang leader,” CNN, November 6, 2022
2. J. Charles, “At least 77 dead in Haiti gas explosion. Death toll could rise,” Miami Herald, December 15, 2021
3. Thomas, Brian; Phillips, Ben; and Garrett, Kayla. Viable, Reliable, and Buyable: Propane for Electricity Generation in Haiti. IEEE Global Humanitarian Technology Conference (GHTC), 2023. https://doi.org/10.1109/GHTC56179.2023.10354854
Cite this episode:
B. Thomas, “Mackendy's Story (interview with Mackendy André),” Electric Equity Podcast, December 23, 2025. [Online]. Available:https://justiceandmercy.energy/mackendys-story