Minister of Natural Resources, Energy and Mining Bintony Kutsaira has urged Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (Escom) to ensure it meets the public demand for power supply.
Speaking on Tuesday when he visited Escom head office and power house in Blantyre as part of his familiarisation tour, the minister said there are many complaints from the public, especially on delayed connections which leads to illegal connections.
He said: “Some people paid their connection fee years ago but power has not been connected to their business premises and houses.”
Kutsaira said he will ensure officials who are deliberately delaying connections are disciplined.
“There are a lot of illegal connections because of corruption within the corporation which is hindering efficient services to Malawians,” he said.
On his part, Escom chief executive officer Allexon Chiwaya said the corporation has put in place measures to curb corruption.
“When people are desperate for connection, they turn to other ways to get the power which also leads to illegal connections. The minister has given us a challenge to think outside the box on how we can solve the problems we are currently facing by using our strategic plan,” he said.
Source: The Nation_August 28, 2019_By John Kasalika-Staff Writer