By Rahim Abdul
The Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) has confirmed the death of two of its employees following a tragic incident that occurred on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Nsaru in Lilongwe.
In a statement released by the corporation, ESCOM said the two were experienced linespersons who lost their lives while carrying out fault repair works on the power network.
The incident has sent shockwaves across the utility company and the nation at large.
“It is with profound sadness that ESCOM Limited confirms a tragic incident that occurred today resulting in the loss of two of our dedicated linespersons,” reads part of the statement signed by management.
According to the statement, the incident happened as the two employees were attending to a reported fault, a routine task that forms part of efforts to maintain stable electricity supply across the country. Further details surrounding the exact circumstances have not yet been disclosed.
ESCOM said its immediate priority is to support the bereaved families, adding that counselling services are also being provided to colleagues and team members affected by the tragedy.
The power utility has appealed to the public to exercise patience and respect the privacy of the grieving families during what it described as an “incredibly difficult time.”
“The safety of our staff is our highest priority,” ESCOM said, noting that a formal internal investigation has been launched in line with standard safety protocols to establish what led to the fatal incident.
The corporation also confirmed that it is fully cooperating with relevant authorities as investigations continue. ESCOM said full details will be made public once the inquiry is concluded.
The deaths come as a painful reminder of the risks faced daily by power utility workers who often operate under hazardous conditions to keep electricity flowing to homes, businesses and essential services.
Meanwhile, messages of condolence have begun pouring in from members of the public and various institutions, with many describing the fallen workers as heroes who died in the line of duty.
