By Rahim Abdul
The Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) has moved to reassure Malawians that the country will experience uninterrupted power supply for four straight days during the upcoming general elections, a period considered critical for both voting and the vote counting process.
Speaking during a press briefing in Blantyre on Monday,ESCOM Chief Executive Officer, Kamkwamba Kumwenda, emphasized that stable electricity is essential for safeguarding the integrity of the elections.
He revealed that the power utility has been engaging industries and large commercial entities, urging them to temporarily suspend non essential operations during the election window to ease pressure on the national grid.
“We want to ensure that no polling center or tallying station is disrupted due to power failure. This election is a national priority and electricity will play a vital role in maintaining transparency and efficiency in the process,” Kumwenda said.
While some companies have cooperated with ESCOM’s request, Kumwenda acknowledged that others have declined, citing contractual obligations and production schedules.
He however, expressed confidence that the measures already in place will be enough to guarantee stability throughout the period.
Kumwenda attributed the recent surge in power outages to a sharp increase in electricity demand, fueled by Malawi’s expanding customer base.
He disclosed that the number of ESCOM customers has grown from 549,000 in 2022 to 710,000 in 2025, a 29% jump in just three years.
“This growth is positive because it reflects progress in electrification and access to power. However, it also means the demand has outpaced supply, which is why we are taking proactive steps to manage the grid carefully during this critical period,” he explained.
Highlighting ESCOM’s recent milestones, Kumwenda announced that the utility secured a $250 million grant from the World Bank in recognition of its operational improvements and strategic reforms.
“This is not a loan but a direct grant. It shows international confidence in our direction as a company and as a nation. These funds will help us invest in infrastructure and modernize our systems to prevent future crises,” he added.
Looking beyond the elections, Kumwenda revealed that Malawi is in the final stages of an agreement to import electricity from Mozambique, a move expected to reduce load shedding and stabilize the power supply in the long term.
“Once the imports from Mozambique commence, Malawians will see a significant reduction in blackouts. This will not only support economic growth but also improve the quality of life for households across the country,” he said.
As Malawians prepare to cast their votes, ESCOM’s pledge comes as a timely assurance to election stakeholders, political parties and the general public. Stable electricity during the voting and tallying process is expected to boost confidence in the electoral system, ensuring that technical glitches do not undermine the democratic process.
This announcement also serves as a reminder of the strategic link between energy security and national stability, particularly during moments of high political importance like national elections.
