A delegation of esteemed members from the Lilongwe Water Board in Malawi embarked on a transformative benchmarking visit at the Urban Pro Poor Branch in Kisenyi – Mengo. Led by the respected Inkosi Ya Makhosi, the Board Chairman of Lilongwe Water Board, the team’s objective was to gain valuable insights into the efficient handling and integration of sewerage and water services. Their mission: to elevate operations and services in Malawi, benefiting urban pro-poor communities and beyond.
Recognizing the pivotal role of water services in underserved urban communities, the delegates eagerly engaged with KW Branch Branch Manager-Urban Pro-Poor Branch, Ms. Evelyn Mukajusi. During this engaging exchange, Ms. Mukajusi provided an insightful overview of the branch, its scope, and the nature of its customers, setting the stage for a fruitful exploration.
The team was then presented with a comprehensive briefing on the functionality of pre-paid meters, using a captivating demo at the Kisenyi branch. These meters, operated through tokens loaded with money, were designed to dispense water automatically upon insertion, ensuring a seamless and efficient process. One notable highlight of this system is its sustainability, powered by a combination of solar and battery energy sources, providing a reliable water supply that leaves minimal environmental impact. Such an ingenious approach also guarantees affordable access to water at a rate of just 25 shillings per jerrycan, a boon for financially challenged communities.
Adding to the excitement, the delegation was introduced to the cutting-edge Susteq pre-paid meter, set to replace the Elster Kent pre-paid meters. The Susteq meter takes efficiency to new heights, boasting an array of payment options and seamless integration with the billing system. These state-of-the-art meters update every 8 hours, all while being powered by solar energy, resulting in a prolonged lifespan of an impressive 8 years. This leap in technology promises to revolutionize water metering and empower consumers in managing their water usage responsibly.
During their visit, the team also had the privilege of observing the operations of a PSP tap, where a single individual manages water sales. Unlike the token-operated meters, these taps offer water to customers at 100 shillings, a slightly higher cost due to the involvement of a middleman. While this approach may not be as cost-effective, it sheds light on the various methods employed to ensure water accessibility in different contexts.
This benchmarking visit was a resounding success, providing invaluable insights that will empower the team from Malawi to elevate their services to new heights. The knowledge gained through this collaborative process exemplifies the significance of cross-border cooperation among water utilities in tackling the universal challenge of water scarcity.
