Former director of communication in Vice-President Saulos Chilima’s office appointed as ESCOM’s new chief public relations officer

* To lead ESCOM’s internal and external communication programmes aimed at strengthening relationships with various stakeholders and understanding of the corporation’s mission and activities

* He is a seasoned communications & media expert with over 10 years of experience gained from working in dynamic and challenging environments

By Duncan Mlanjira

Pilirani Phiri, who served as director of communication in Vice-President office from late Saulos Chilima to Michael Usi, has been appointed as new chief public relations & communications officer for Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) Limited — effective June 1, 2025.

He takes the position held by Kitty Chingota, who retired last year after a long service with the power utility company — coming from a strong media background having worked for Blantyre Newspapers Ltd, now called Times Group.

In its statement, ESCOM management says Pilirani Phiri will lead internal and external communication programmes aimed at strengthening relationships with various stakeholders and understanding of the corporation’s mission and activities.

“Mr. Phiri is a seasoned communications & media expert with over 10 years of experience gained from working in dynamic and challenging environments,” says the statement.

“He served as director of communications in the Office of the Vice-President for several years, and before that, he had a successful stint in mainstream journalism.

“He is a Chevening Scholar and holder of a Master of Arts in International Relations and Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication,” acknowledges ESCOM, adding that he “brings a wealth of experience and expertise in public relations & communications management, which will be crucial in the realisation of ESCOM’s strategic goals.”

The statement quotes ESCOM’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kamkwamba Kumwenda as expressing confidence that “Pilirani’s skills and leadership will greatly benefit ESCOM to effectively communicate developments, issues and initiatives at the power utility company”.

“We are on a journey to providing an enhanced experience to our customers and various stakeholders in the country,” he said. “The coming in of Mr. Phiri will foster mutually beneficial relationships and understanding of how we are working tirelessly to be a leading provider of reliable, inclusive, and affordable electricity to all. I wish him all the best in this role.”

For his part, Pilirani Phiri said: “I am excited to join the highly motivated team at ESCOM that is working tirelessly to power homes, businesses and various facilities to achieve socio-economic goals of our country.

“I am excited with the challenges and opportunities ahead and how together with our friends in the media, power suppliers, regulatory authorities and consumer rights advocates, can collectively work together to ensure there is power all day, everyday!”