08 Feb 2022 | 09:50 AM UTC
Malawi: Power supply disruptions possible nationwide through at least mid-2022
Power supply disruptions possible nationwide in Malawi through at least mid-2022.
Event
Power supply disruptions are possible nationwide through at least mid-2022. Electricity Generation Company Malawi Limited (EGENCO) has indicated that the Chikhwawa Dam feeding the Kapichira Hydro-Electric Power Station was damaged during the passage of Tropical Storm Ana in late January. The Kapichira facility has also reportedly stopped functioning. Repairs may take as long as six months.
Officials may implement both planned and unplanned outages in response to demand in the coming weeks. Temporary commercial and communications disruptions are possible; cellular and mobile services could be affected. Traffic disruptions and longer driving times are possible during these periods due to malfunctioning traffic signals. Trains may also experience delays if outages impact signaling devices or overhead wires. Power outages could also result in the temporary unavailability of essential services such as ATMs and filling stations. There is an increased security threat during power outages. Blackouts could adversely affect security protocols, including alarm systems and electronic fences; opportunistic criminal activity could increase during electricity outages.
Advice
Develop or review business continuity plan (BCP) sections regarding utility outages. Identify business-critical functions that require a power supply. Invest in generators and, if applicable, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units. Power laptops, tablets, mobile phones, and other business or travel-critical appliances regularly. Download available warning apps covering planned or unplanned power outages and monitor announcements from the utility.
