National News

‘Escom proposed tariff hike to hit health sector’

Kwataine: DHOs are already struggling
Kwataine: DHOs are already struggling

Malawi Health Equity Network (Mhen) executive director Martha Kwataine says the proposed 58 percent increase in electricity tariffs will eat hard into the health sector budget and cripple delivery of health care services.

In a statement released on Thursday, Kwataine said district health officers (DHOs) are already struggling to settle existing bills with Escom.

“When DHOs receive their monthly allocations, they first pay electricity and other utility bills, and remain with very little for critical operations. Those who supply food and other services to hospitals will also charge more because of the increase in Escom tariffs.

“The whole private sector will increase their prices because everything depends on electricity.

“We find the proposal by Escom to adjust its tariffs by 58 percent rough rate, unfair and inhumane,” she said.

Kwataine echoed voices of other critics of the proposed tariff hike who have said Escom’s main problem is politicisation of its services and alleged rampant corruption.

“Politicians must have their hands off Escom…do not penalise innocent consumers because of your mediocrity,” said Kwataine.

Escom has proposed to Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (Mera) a 58 percent increase on its base tariff, arguing it needs to recaptalise to provide sufficient energy service.

Escom board chairperson Morgan Tembo recently defended the proposed tariff, describing it as only a proposal and an entry point oF improved processes that have been started.

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