ESCOM, MISA Malawi Unite to Fight Vandalism Through New Media Award

The Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) and the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi Chapter have joined forces to tackle one of the nation’s persistent challenges — vandalism of electricity infrastructure — through the launch of the ESCOM Anti-Vandalism Media Award.

Announced in Lilongwe on October 16, 2025, the initiative aims to empower journalists to take an active role in protecting public infrastructure by exposing the devastating effects of vandalism on communities, the economy, and national development.

Starting November 1, 2025, the award will recognize outstanding reporting in Print, Electronic, and Online Media, with each category winner receiving K1 million.

According to ESCOM’s Chief Public Relations and Communications Officer, Pilirani Phiri, the award is part of ESCOM’s broader mission to safeguard Malawi’s electricity network and improve service delivery for all citizens.

“Vandalism of ESCOM infrastructure is not just a commercial challenge for us; it is a direct attack on Malawi’s future,” Phiri said. “These acts cause blackouts that stall economic activity, disrupt hospitals and schools, and hurt ordinary Malawians. This award is our way of empowering journalists to help fight this menace through impactful storytelling and awareness.”

Phiri added that the partnership also reflects ESCOM’s commitment to building stronger relationships with the media, viewing journalists as essential allies in advancing national development.

MISA Malawi Chairperson, Golden Matonga, praised ESCOM for its proactive engagement, describing the collaboration as a model of how state-owned institutions can work hand-in-hand with the media for public good.

“This is more than an award; it’s a call to service,” Matonga said. “It recognizes the media’s critical role in public education, accountability, and nation-building. By reporting on vandalism, journalists can help protect vital infrastructure and ensure that citizens enjoy reliable access to electricity — a cornerstone of development.”

The award will cover stories published or broadcast between November 1, 2025, and April 30, 2026, with winners to be announced during the 2026 MISA Malawi Media Awards in May.

Both organizations are urging journalists across the country to investigate and report deeply on the causes, effects, and solutions to infrastructure vandalism — an issue that costs Malawi millions in repairs and undermines economic progress.

Ultimately, the move seeks to achieve more than recognition. It aims to spark national consciousness, strengthen accountability, and restore public responsibility in protecting public assets that power the nation’s homes, industries, and dreams.