By Mercy Matonga:
Principal Secretary for Energy Emmanuel Matapa has said the government expects the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (Mera) to operate more independently following the completion of the Twinning Project, which has equipped the regulator with upgraded systems aimed at strengthening its operations.
Matapa said Mera’s previous setup contributed to challenges such as persistent fuel shortages, a situation he hopes will be addressed as the institution transitions into a more autonomous and efficient regulator.
“We are assuring Malawians that Mera is working tirelessly to end the fuel challenges the country has been facing,” Matapa said.
He added that some of the challenges the institution has been facing were caused because Mera was not able to adjust fuel prices despite changes on the international market.
The Twinning Project, implemented through the Italian Energy Agency on behalf of the European Union, has provided Mera with enhanced tools that are designed to improve pricing mechanisms, communication flow and overall institutional independence.
Project leader for Mera, Patrick Kadewa, said the improvements would reposition the regulator.
“These upgraded systems will support Mera to strengthen its pricing mechanisms and improve communication flow. This will make the institution more effective,” he said.
On his part, Twinning Adviser Antonio Cassina said he was hopeful about the reforms.
“We are hoping for the continuity of this project because the foundations laid here are critical for the sector’s growth,” Cassina said.
Mera Consumer Affairs and Public Relations Manager Fitina Khonje said the institution would continue building on the gains.
“We, as Mera, remain committed to these developments and will ensure that consumers benefit from the improvements,” Khonje said.
The Twinning project is worth €2.3 million, funded by the European Union, and started in 2023.
