ESCOM public relations officer Peter Kanjere told us today that their supplier is facing logistical challenges as the procurement process they use involves a third party but was quick to say the power body is concerned with the situation of blackouts.
"The process has delayed because the supplier is facing logistical challenges and we may not be able to say with certainty as to when the transformers will be ready for delivery in the cited areas as the issue of procuring them involves a third party", said Kanjere.
He however expressed worry over the situation, saying ESCOM is equally worried.
"We are equally concerned that people in the affected areas are facing challenges and we hope that the transformers will be delivered as soon as possible", disclosed the PRO.
Edison Jimu, a welder at Kambale says he stoped doing business in December last year and he estimates to have lost close to MK 7 million in the process.
"I have a family I support through my welding business and as you are aware this job depends on electricity, now we are clocking almost a year without power with no tangible answers from ESCOM, am losing customers ", worried Jimu.
He added that, the Mk 7 million he has lost could have helped him send his children to school and uplift his livelihood.
Another resident of the area, Yusuf Ali who plies his trade as a barber, says he is idle at home with nothing to do and is calling on authorities to rescue them.
He said for example, with the coming in of the rain season, he is doubtful of affording fertilizer even in the Affordable Inputs Program.
Member of Parliament for Neno North Constituency Thoko Tembo three months ago delivered the issue to President Lazarus Chakwera when he visited Neno to open the Jobs for Youth initiative.
"One thing that is effecting the economic growth of our youths is the issue of a transfer at Kambale trade centre, your Excellence, I tried to talk to ESCOM on this, but nothing is being done, please intervene", he asked the H.E.
The president responded indirectly by empathizing on the need for constant energy supply for national development.
