Northern Malawians Praise Chakwera's Development Projects, Cite Improved Infrastructure
MZUZU, Malawi— President Lazarus Chakwera's development initiatives in northern Malawi are drawing praise from local communities, who cite improvements in infrastructure and quality of life, writes Tionge Hara.
The region, encompassing Karonga, Chitipa, Rumphi, Mzimba, Nkhatabay, and Likoma, is currently home to 31 ongoing projects aimed at transforming the area's economic and social landscape.
Aline Kaunda, 39, from Nkhatabay district, highlighted the importance of water projects in the region.
"As you are aware, Nkhata Bay district is one of the districts in Malawi that has always been hit hard by Cholera, so the water project has come at a very good time," Kaunda told AfricaBrief.
In Rumphi district, the Thazima water project is expected to benefit 33,000 people living near Nyika and Vwaza national parks. Senior Chief Mpherembe expressed optimism about the project's impact: "The water project will ease the spread of waterborne diseases, and the salty water problems won't be an issue because people will be able to access clean water."
The Thazima project aims to provide clean, potable water while protecting local ecosystems and agriculture.
Professor Wales Singini of Mzuzu University praised the government's construction of a new library, noting its positive impact on students.
These initiatives are part of President Chakwera's broader vision for developing Malawi's northern region, which has historically lagged behind in infrastructure and economic opportunities.
As the projects continue to take shape, residents express growing optimism about the region's future.
The government's focus on essential services like water and education appears to be resonating strongly with local communities, potentially setting the stage for long-term economic growth and improved living standards in northern Malawi.
People from the north they only eat promises from each and every Government that comes in... I feel sorry for my people in the northern region 😭
If honesty be told, yes there life changing developments in the north which should not be compromised by petty partisan party politics. I am personally upset by lack of movement on an modern airport at mzuzu and a bigger facility at karonga.