In a proactive customer and public communication initiative, the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) Limited has assured the nation of a stable power supply throughout the festive season.
ESCOM’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Sinosi Maliano said the Corporation has implemented strategic measures to strengthen system reliability and minimize outages during the holidays.
Maliano explained that ESCOM has completed most of its planned maintenance and reinforcement works on key parts of the distribution network ahead of the festive period.
“These proactive efforts, which include routine inspections of lines and critical equipment, aim to reduce the likelihood of faults and ensure that the network is in optimal condition to serve customers reliably,” he said.
“To further enhance service continuity, ESCOM has scaled up rapid fault response teams to operate around the clock during the holidays. These teams will be on standby to quickly restore power in the event of outages caused by stormy rains or other incidents. The Corporation has also strengthened coordination with relevant stakeholders to effectively manage electricity supply and demand trends throughout the season, improving system balance and fairness,” he said.
Maliano said with many factories and large industrial operations typically closing or reducing activity over the festive season, overall demand on the system is expected to ease.
“This reduction in industrial demand will help mitigate strain on the grid and reduce the likelihood of load-shedding for residential customers, especially during peak evening hours,” he said.
Maliano said the Corporation has also enhanced its customer communication and fault reporting services.
“Our customers are encouraged to report power faults or service concerns through the toll-free numbers 2020 and 3030 for prompt attention, he said.
Maliano stressed that improved communication channels will support faster response and resolution during the busy holiday period.
ESCOM Chief Public Relations and Communications Officer, Pilirani Phiri, highlighted that effective communication remains central to ESCOM’s service excellence.
Phiri said that the expanded outreach across both traditional and digital media platforms is intended to keep customers well informed and reassured about power supply stability during the festive season.
Phiri also appealed to the public to partner with the Corporation by practicing electrical safety at all times and using the available reporting channels responsibly.
“We appeal to members of the public not to touch or approach fallen poles, exposed conductors, or any damaged electrical infrastructure, which pose serious risks of electrocution. Such hazards should be reported immediately using the toll-free contact numbers so that ESCOM teams can respond safely and swiftly,” he said.