Dear Editor,
The Platform for Investigative Journalism (PIJ) has published a report in which some landowners are accusing the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) of insufficiently compensating around 500 families affected by the Mozambique-Malawi (MOMA) power transmission interconnection project.
The MOMA project involves the construction of a 218-kilometer, 400-kilovolt (kV) high-voltage electricity transmission line. This line originates from Matambo in Mozambique, crosses into Malawi through the Mwanza and Neno districts, and ultimately connects to the ESCOM Phombeya power substation in Balaka. On the Malawian side, the transmission corridor covers a distance of 76 kilometers.
In April 2022, President Lazarus Chakwera and Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi jointly laid the foundation stone for the MOMA Power Transmission project, which, as revealed by PIJ, is now underway.
On my part, what PIJ’s investigative report is communicating is that the power connection agreement between Malawi and Mozambique has transitioned from mere words to concrete action. With power outages already significantly reduced, the completion of this power interconnection project holds the potential to return Malawi to an era of consistent electricity supply with minimal to no interruptions throughout the year. This is what we call building Malawi.
Regarding the community’s perception of inadequate compensation, it is crucial for them to assertively advocate for their right to fair recompense for their land. Authorities are also urged to act in the best interests of our people. This land is essential for their livelihoods, and since it is being used for this project, ensuring they receive proper compensation is of utmost importance.
John Chiweza
Ntcheu
