The Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) says uninterrupted power supply (UPS) systems installed at Liwonde Station in Machinga and Chiponde Border Post in Mangochi have improved service delivery, trade facilitation and revenue collection.
The systems were installed in 2021 under the World Bank-funded Southern Africa Trade and Connectivity Project (SATCP) to reduce disruptions caused by electricity outages.
Liwonde Station Manager Mathews Kalima said the backup system had reduced operational interruptions and backlogs, allowing officers to continue working during power cuts.
“Before the power backup system was installed, we used to suspend services whenever there was a blackout,” Kalima said.
The station recorded a 37 percent increase in revenue between January and March this year, which MRA linked to improved operational efficiency.
At Chiponde, MRA Team Leader, Advice Mshali, said the system had similarly reduced downtime and improved services for border users.
“We are now able to continue working even when there are power outages,” Mshali said.
Local trader Ishmael Hamidi said the reliable power supply had also increased traders’ confidence, as they were less likely to face delays when accessing MRA services.
MRA said the intervention demonstrated how dependable infrastructure could support domestic revenue mobilisation while improving the efficiency and predictability of customs and revenue services.
#MBCDigital
#Manthu
