BY OWN CORRESPONDENT
MBABANE- The Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) is proud to inform all customers that, in collaboration with regional transmission partners, is undertaking a major maintenance programme on the Camden–Edwaleni–Maputo 400kV transmission line to strengthen the reliability and security of electricity supply in Eswatini and the Southern African interconnected power network. The project, whose on-site implementation commenced on 7 April 2026, is expected to be completed by October 2026. Throughout the maintenance period, the transmission line will remain energised, ensuring customers continue to receive electricity while essential refurbishment work is carried out.
Strengthening the Region’s Electricity Highway
The maintenance programme focuses on replacing approximately 2,301 ageing insulators and associated hardware along the Camden–Edwaleni–Maputo 400kV transmission line. The works cover the section from Camden Power Station in South Africa to the Edwaleni Substation in Eswatini and from Edwaleni to the Mozambique border. The project is being executed using internationally recognised live-line maintenance techniques, where specially trained technicians, supported by a helicopter, safely replace insulators while the transmission line remains energised. This approach allows critical maintenance to be undertaken without interrupting electricity supply or compromising the stability of the regional electricity network.
Partnering for a Stronger Electricity Network
While the specialised maintenance work is being carried out by MICO Construction, EEC remains a key partner throughout the implementation of the project. EEC technicians are deployed alongside the contractor to provide technical support, facilitate communication with affected communities and property owners, and ensure all project activities comply with the Kingdom of Eswatini’s laws, operational standards and safety requirements. The Company is also working closely with regional utilities to coordinate maintenance activities and ensure the project is completed efficiently while minimising inconvenience to customers.
EEC Transmission Lines Engineer, Mr. United Mavuso, has requested the public to support the timely completion of the 400kV transmission line maintenance project. “We appeal to members of the public and property owners along the transmission line corridor to cooperate with the project teams by allowing reasonable access to transmission infrastructure where required”, he said. Mavuso also urged members of the public not to interfere with contractor personnel, support teams or helicopter operations, as any obstruction may compromise safety and delay this critical maintenance programme. Helicopter flying at low altitude or hovering near transmission towers during the project is part of planned maintenance activities and should not be mistaken for an emergency or fault on the electricity network.
Investing in a More Reliable Supply
Upon completion, the maintenance project will deliver long-term benefits to electricity customers by improving the reliability, safety and resilience of the transmission network.
Replacing ageing insulators before failures occur will reduce the risk of unplanned outages, improve the performance of critical transmission infrastructure and enhance the Company’s ability to meet the country’s growing electricity demand. “Through this project, EEC is taking a proactive approach to strengthening critical transmission infrastructure and reducing the risk of unplanned power interruptions. The replacement of ageing insulators will enhance the reliability and resilience of the network, enabling us to continue providing customers with a safe, secure and dependable electricity supply,” said the EEC Marketing and Corporate Communications Manager, Khaya Mavuso.
Because the work is being carried out while the transmission line remains energised, customers continue to receive uninterrupted electricity supply throughout the maintenance period. Ultimately, the project will contribute to a more secure, reliable and efficient electricity network for households, businesses and industries across Eswatini.
(Courtesy Pic)
