Kasungu leaders call for patrols following ESCOM transformer vandalism

Traditional leaders and the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) are calling for increased community vigilance following a surge in transformer vandalism in the Kasungu district. In the Traditional Authority of Mwase alone, four transformers were stolen within a four-week period, leaving numerous communities without power.

The theft has disrupted essential services, including schools, clinics, maize mills, and various small businesses. ESCOM Chief Public Relations and Communications Officer Pilirani Phiri reported that the corporation loses approximately K3 billion annually to vandalism. He noted that a single transformer costs roughly K25 million, excluding labor, and that the Central Region requires about 70 replacement units.

In response, ESCOM has launched a community sensitization campaign to encourage local ownership of infrastructure. Senior Chief Kaomba and Senior Chief Mwase have urged residents to form security patrols to protect utility installations. Additionally, Senior Chief Mwase suggested that ESCOM investigate former employees, noting that tampering with such equipment often requires specialized technical knowledge.