By Suleman Chitera

The Malawi Government has announced that it is moving into the next phase of rural electrification while increasing electricity generation capacity in a bid to improve power supply and reduce persistent blackouts across the country.

Minister of Energy Jean Mathanga said the Malawi Rural Electrification Programme (MAREP) Phase 9 has reached more than 86 percent completion, with government already procuring materials for the implementation of MAREP Phase 10.Electricity Tariff Hiked by 16% Effective February 1, 2025

Speaking in an interview with MIJ Online, Mathanga said communities that will benefit under MAREP Phase 10 will be identified through requests submitted by Area Development Committees (ADCs) and District Assemblies, ensuring that the programme responds to local development priorities.

“The areas to be covered under MAREP Phase 10 will be determined based on requests received from communities through their Area Development Committees and District Assemblies,” she explained.

Addressing concerns over ongoing electricity outages, Mathanga acknowledged that the country has experienced supply challenges due to a growing mismatch between electricity generation and increasing demand.Power Crisis in Malawi: Businesses Lose Millions as Electricity Shortages Disrupt Operations

However, she assured Malawians that government is implementing measures to stabilize the national grid and urged the public not to expect prolonged power interruptions as additional generation capacity comes online.

Among the key interventions is the commissioning of a 10-megawatt solar power plant in Salima, scheduled for August 16, 2026. The minister said the project will inject additional electricity into the national grid and help ease the pressure that has contributed to frequent blackouts.

Government believes the expansion of rural electrification alongside investments in renewable energy generation will improve access to electricity, support economic growth, and enhance service delivery in communities across Malawi.Prophet Shepherd Bushiri Donates MK20 Million to Monkey Bay Community Hospital Amid Electricity Crisis