The Malawi Electiricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (Escom), under the Rural Electrification Project 8 (MAREP) is set to roll out power supply to in the areas of senior chiefs Mabuka and Chikumbu, in Mulanje. The development will see 15% of Mulanje residents have access to electricity.

Energy and Mining Chimwemwe Banda said that the development would boost business opportunities to people in the areas, as electricity is a priority in the socio-economic development of communities. “With the electricity, people will venture into several businesses that require electricity and this will in turn change their livelihoods,” Banda said.

Director of Planning and Development for Mulanje Mercy Mpakule said the coming of electricity in the area is in line with the district’s plans. Upon completion in 2022, the project will transform Mulanje, as the district is a tourist attraction destination due to Mulanje mountain. Meanwhile, Marep celebrated installing electricity in 336 areas.