Malawians are expressing outrage on social media after revelations that the immediate past administration of President Lazarus Chakwera approved nearly half a billion kwacha for a documentary that was never released.
The documentary, according to official correspondence now in circulation, was meant to showcase improvements made across the country’s water boards, highlighting government efforts to expand access to clean and safe water.
Chakwera is said to have ordered that the achievements be documented and shown to the public. However, months after the funds were paid, the video has not seen the light of day.
At the center of the controversy is a contract awarded by the Ministry of Water and Sanitation to CG Communications at a total cost of K485,526,810, with water boards instructed to contribute to a 30 percent advance payment of K145,658,043.
Documents show that institutions were asked to release K24,276,340.50 each to facilitate the project’s commencement.
A leaked statement signed by Elias Chimulambe, Secretary for Water and Sanitation, confirms that all procurement procedures were said to have been followed and that a team of high-profile media experts had been assembled for the production.
“I am pleased to inform you that following all procurement procedures, the Ministry has awarded this contract to CG Communications at the total contract sum of MK 485,526,810.00 as per attached contract document,” read part of the statement.
The listed professionals to produce the documentary included Joab Frank Chakhaza as Strategic Communications Expert, Luke Tembo as Media Production Expert responsible for filming, Gospel Kazako as Media Policy Expert, and Gabriel Kamlomo, who was engaged as the scriptwriter.
But Malawians online say the real issue is simple: despite the massive public investment, there is no documentary to show.
“What exactly did half a billion kwacha pay for?” one user wrote on Facebook, echoing a sentiment shared by thousands of others calling for an audit and accountability from the former administration.
Malawians are also demanding that those implicated come out and explain what happened, with one citizen commenting on X (formerly Twitter)
“Those involved must answer where the money went because Malawians deserve the truth.”
Meanwhile, authorities are yet to comment on the matter.
