Minister of Transport and Public Works, Dr. Feston Kaupa, has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring Malawi’s road network remains well-maintained, reliable, and supportive of national development.
During an inspection tour on Monday of the Seven Mailosi–Namadidi Market Road and the St. Anthony-Naere Road in his Zomba Changalume Constituency, Dr. Kaupa emphasized that it is the government’s responsibility to champion a robust programme focused on road construction, upgrading, and maintenance in line with the Ministry’s mandate.
He explained that inspecting roads within his constituency sets a benchmark for infrastructure development initiatives that will be implemented nationwide.
Despite current financial constraints, Dr. Kaupa assured the public that the Ministry will continue to initiate new projects, advance ongoing works, and resuscitate stalled projects, particularly those abandoned under the previous administration, many of which are in the Southern Region.
He further commended the increased allocation to the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), noting that it has empowered district councils with greater capacity to upgrade and maintain the district road networks under their jurisdiction.
Regarding the roads inspected, Dr. Kaupa expressed satisfaction with the commitment shown by both the Roads Authority and the Zomba District Council, who have pledged to implement immediate interventions as well as long-term solutions to improve the road conditions.
Eng. Flora Hauya, Director of Maintenance at the Roads Authority, stated that with adequate maintenance funding, the Authority would be fully equipped to deliver timely and effective maintenance on all roads under its care.
Zomba District Commissioner, Reinghard Chavula, applauded the Minister for his dedication and consistent push to improve road infrastructure across the district, noting that such efforts will significantly enhance mobility and economic activity.