By Shaffie A Mtambo

Malawi’s Ministry of Energy, led by Ibrahim Matola, has announced significant progress in connecting households to the national power grid. Despite the challenges faced by Malawians regarding electricity, President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera’s administration has successfully assisted 90,000 households in accessing the grid.

However, Matola highlighted that electricity issues have been disrupted by vandalism of electrical equipment. He emphasized the need for Malawians to work together in reporting such crimes to ensure that offenders are brought to justice. Climatic factors have also contributed to power outages, with adverse weather conditions causing Escom’s electric poles to fall.

The Ministry of Energy is committed to expanding electricity access, with plans to connect an additional 90,000 households by July 2025. Furthermore, 280 health facilities and public schools will be connected to electricity, promoting development and improving the quality of life for Malawians.

The construction of the Mpatamanga Hydropower Project, which will generate 361 megawatts, is also expected to commence soon. This project is a significant development for Malawi, as it seeks to increase electricity access and promote economic growth.

Malawi’s efforts to expand electricity access are part of a broader strategy to promote economic development and improve the quality of life for its citizens. The government’s commitment to connecting more households and institutions to the national power grid is a positive step towards achieving this goal.

As Malawi continues to make progress in electricity access, it is essential for citizens to work together to protect electrical infrastructure and promote sustainable development. By doing so, Malawi can ensure a brighter future for its people and promote economic growth and development.

By Burnett Munthali

Fourteen primary schools in Ntchisi District remain in a state of disrepair after their classroom blocks were severely damaged by recent hailstorms. Despite the urgent need for restoration, the Ntchisi District Council has yet to take action, raising concerns about the impact on the quality of education for affected learners.

According to District Senior Primary Education Advisor (SPEA) Annie Chazema, the damaged infrastructure is significantly disrupting teaching and learning. With classrooms rendered unusable, many learners are forced to study in overcrowded spaces, makeshift shelters, or even under trees. Chazema emphasized that the longer the delays continue, the greater the risk of learners falling behind in their studies.

“The lack of proper classroom structures is greatly affecting the provision of quality education. We urge authorities to act swiftly so that learners can have a conducive learning environment,” said Chazema.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson for Ntchisi District Council, James Mwale, stated that the council is still in the process of assessing the extent of the damage. He explained that a full report will be compiled before any renovation work begins, but he did not provide a specific timeline for when the repairs might commence.

Educationist Benedicto Kondowe has called on the relevant authorities to treat the matter with urgency, warning that any further delays could have long-term consequences on learners’ academic performance. He stressed the importance of government and stakeholders prioritizing education infrastructure in disaster response efforts.

“There is a need for authorities to move with speed and act on the issue. The longer learners are kept in poor learning conditions, the more their education suffers. We need immediate intervention,” Kondowe said.

Among the affected schools are Sopani, Chinthungwa, Makanda, Chibweya, and Mpherere, with more schools potentially in need of urgent rehabilitation.

As the assessment continues, parents, teachers, and learners remain anxious about the future of their education. Many are calling on the government, development partners, and local organizations to step in and provide support for the reconstruction efforts. Without immediate action, the education of hundreds of learners in Ntchisi remains in jeopardy.