Paramount Chief Kyungu of Karonga has urged government to speed up rehabilitation of the Chiweta–Karonga Road, saying its deteriorating condition continues to affect livelihoods and access to essential services in the district.
The call comes as the government has commenced the procurement process for the rehabilitation of the 105-kilometre road section and secured funding for the project, according to a recent update from the Roads Authority.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook page, Kyungu said the poor state of the road is hampering agriculture, healthcare, education and business activities in Karonga and surrounding areas.
He said farmers are struggling to transport produce to markets, while patients, particularly expectant mothers, are facing challenges reaching health facilities because of damaged and impassable sections of the road.
The traditional leader also warned that businesses are grappling with rising transport costs, contributing to higher prices of goods imported through neighbouring Tanzania and Zambia.
“The Songwe–Karonga–Chiweta Road is a socio-economic lifeline for Malawi. Government must speed up its rehabilitation, and Members of Parliament should speak with one voice in demanding immediate action,” Kyungu said.
The Roads Authority announced on Sunday that preparations for the rehabilitation project have reached the procurement stage, with an international tender already issued for the works.
The authority said construction is expected to commence after completion of the procurement process and mobilisation of contractors.
Kyungu also highlighted the importance of other strategic roads in the Northern Region, including the Mbilima–Chitipa–Karonga and Nthalire–Chitipa–Rumphi roads, which he described as vital for economic growth and improved connectivity.
