BWB faces power cut over K1.6bn debt

The Blantyre Water Board (BWB) is facing a power cut after failing to settle electricity bill owed to the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM).

ESCOM has given the Blantyre Water Board (BWB) 14 days to settle an outstanding electricity bill of K1.6 billion or face disconnection at its Head Office.

According to ESCOM, BWB had committed to pay K2 billion in August but only managed to pay K400 million, leaving an outstanding balance of K1.6 billion.

In a letter dated September 1, 2026 and signed by ESCOM Chief Executive Officer Eng. William Kaipa, the power utility warned that it will disconnect electricity at BWB’s Head Office on September 14 if the outstanding amount is not settled.

ESCOM says the unpaid bill is affecting its operations, adding that it continues to incur taxes, fees and other charges on behalf of BWB.

The power utility has therefore urged BWB to settle the outstanding amount within the 14-day notice period to avoid disconnection.