By Wendy Mkandawire
Minister of Energy, Jean Mathanga, has assured Malawians that the government remains committed to expanding electricity access nationwide through ongoing rural electrification initiatives.
Mathanga said the country is currently implementing MAREP Phase 9, with preparations at an advanced stage to roll out Phase 10. The new phase will extend power to more underserved rural communities.
Speaking in an interview after several members of Parliament raised concerns in parliament over lack of electricity in their constituencies,Mathanga said the government is continuing to connect rural households through the Malawi Rural Electrification Programme (MAREP).
She also highlighted the ASCENT Project, which is funded by the World Bank. According to Mathanga, ASCENT specifically targets the electrification of public institutions such as schools and health facilities to improve delivery of essential services.
“The two programs complement each other. MAREP focuses on expanding electricity access to rural communities, while ASCENT improves power supply to key public institutions,” she said.
Mathanga reaffirmed government’s commitment to increasing electricity access, noting that the continued implementation of both projects will contribute to improved education, healthcare delivery, and socio-economic development across Malawi.
