ESCOM Concrete Poles Project to Boost Power Reliability in Southern Region

The Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) Limited says its Prestressed Concrete Poles Project will significantly improve electricity reliability, reduce maintenance costs and strengthen the country’s power transmission network in the Southern Region.

Speaking during a media tour in Mulanje District on Monday, June 29 2026 ESCOM Chief Public Relations and Communications Officer Pilirani Phiri said the Corporation adopted prestressed concrete poles after years of challenges with wooden poles, many of which deteriorate prematurely and require frequent replacement.

Phiri said the new poles offer a durable and cost-effective solution, with an estimated lifespan of up to 80 years.

“Concrete poles require significantly less maintenance, are resistant to rot, termites and harsh weather conditions, and are less susceptible to vandalism than traditional wooden poles. This means fewer planned and unplanned power outages, reduced maintenance costs and a more reliable electricity supply for our customers,” said Phiri.

Phiri added that industries, businesses and households across the Southern Region will benefit from improved network reliability and fewer service interruptions.

The project involves replacing wooden poles on two strategic transmission lines, the 66kV Mapanga–Fundis Cross line and the 132kV Nkula B–Phombeya No. 1 line. Both lines were commissioned between 1979 and 1987 and have become increasingly expensive to maintain due to ageing infrastructure.

The Fundis Cross transmission line supplies electricity to the tea-growing districts of Thyolo, Mulanje and Phalombe, while the Nkula B–Phombeya line is a critical transmission corridor that evacuates power from the Nkula Hydroelectric Power Station to the national grid.

Sawa Group Construction Engineer James Munyui said the works are progressing well.

“So far, 36 out of the planned 304 concrete poles have been erected along the 44-kilometre route. We are confident that the project will be completed before the onset of the rainy season,” he said.

Infrastructure Project Planners (IPP) Operations Director Isaac Kunkeyani said the consultant is responsible for ensuring the quality of pole designs, construction works and overall project implementation.

“At the current pace, we expect the contractor to complete the project ahead of schedule, hopefully by the end of September,” said Kunkeyani.