Likoma District Council Praised for Prioritizing Local Artisans in Contracts
The council's policy shift represents a significant change in local economic development strategies for the island district.
LIKOMA, Malawi— The Likoma District Council is receiving praise for awarding construction contracts to local artisans, a shift from previous practices of hiring mainland contractors, writes Ireen Mseteka, MANA.
Davy Zakaliya, Managing Director of Bella Construction Company, applauded the initiative Thursday, saying it allows qualified local artisans to benefit directly from district projects.
"This will enable us to enjoy the fruits of various projects in our district which was not the case in the past," Zakaliya said.
His company was awarded a K21 million contract to construct a library at Chima Primary School.
Franco Katanda, Managing Director of K3 Building Construction Company in Chizumulu, agreed the policy change encourages community participation in development activities.
"By involving local artisans, we fully devote ourselves to the work by ensuring that we work according to the required standards knowing that the projects belong to us," Katanda said.
Earnest Gulu, Chairperson for Likoma District Council, said the initiative helps achieve Malawi2063 development goals by creating jobs and promoting community ownership.
"We have a lot of graduates in our communities that are very good builders, plumbers and electricians, and we need to make use of them," Gulu said.
However, Katanda urged the council to supply construction materials promptly to avoid project delays due to currency depreciation.
The council's policy shift represents a significant change in local economic development strategies for the island district.