ESCOM Launches New Act to Combat Theft, Vandalism of Power Infrastructure
The launch of this amended act represents a significant step in Malawi's efforts to protect critical power infrastructure and improve electricity access across the country.
BLANTYRE, Malawi— The Electricity Supply Commission of Malawi (ESCOM) launched its Electricity Amendment Act of 2024, aiming to curb widespread theft and vandalism of power infrastructure, writes Steven Godfrey Mkweteza.
ESCOM CEO Kamkwamba Kumwenda expressed concern over rising incidents costing the utility more than 2 billion Malawi kwacha (approximately $1.9 million) annually.
"This is derailing our interventions to connect to a larger populace because we use the resources intended for new customers to replace vandalized materials," Kumwenda said.
The amended act introduces stiffer penalties, including fines up to 150 million kwacha ($142,000) and 30 years of hard labor for employees aiding in theft or vandalism.
Kumwenda highlighted plans to work with scrap metal associations, as stolen materials often end up in the scrap trade.
Additional measures include relocating vulnerable infrastructure and rebranding equipment for easier identification.
Chief Justice Rezzine Mzikamanda pledged judicial support, emphasizing the importance of timely prosecution.
"ESCOM is a business entity which aims at making profits as well. So it is sad that it is losing huge sums of money to vandalism and thefts," Mzikamanda said.
Police Commissioner Noel Kayira committed to enhancing law enforcement measures, stressing the importance of educating officers about the new act.
The launch of this amended act represents a significant step in Malawi's efforts to protect critical power infrastructure and improve electricity access across the country.