Minister of Transport and Public Works, Hon. Jappie Mhango, MP, officially launched the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Golomoti-Monkey Bay Road (M10) Lot 1, describing the project as another major step in Government's commitment to improving transport infrastructure and unlocking economic opportunities through better connectivity.
The road, which provides the shortest route from Lilongwe to Mangochi and other lakeshore destinations, is expected to transform access to key tourism, agriculture and fishing areas. Designed with climate-resilient features, the upgraded road will also withstand flooding and other environmental challenges that have affected the route over the years.
“This is one of the most important roads in the country because it supports key sectors such as tourism, fishing and agriculture. Government remains committed to developing quality infrastructure that drives economic growth and improves the lives of Malawians," said Mhango.
The Minister commended FDH Financial Holdings Limited, Chief Executive Officer, William Mpinganjira, whose bank is financing the project, describing the partnership as a significant milestone in Government's efforts to mobilise domestic resources for infrastructure development. He said the collaboration demonstrates the important role local financial institutions can play in complementing Government's investment in national development and encouraged other commercial banks and private investors to partner with Government in developing the transport sector.
Hon. Mhango said the project forms part of Government's broader programme to rehabilitate and modernise the country's road network. He cited ongoing works on the Nsipe-Chingeni-Liwonde Road, the launch of the Liwonde-Matawale Road Project with support from the World Bank, preparations for the reconstruction of the Karonga-Chiweta Road and the upgrading of rural roads as evidence of Government's commitment to improving connectivity across the country.
The Minister further said Government is pursuing partnerships to strengthen not only the road subsector but also aviation, rail and marine transport. He disclosed that the Ministry is seeking strategic investment in the Plant and Vehicle Hire and Engineering Services (PVHES) to enhance its capacity to support national infrastructure development.
He also stressed that all infrastructure projects must be completed on time, within budget and to the required quality standards, while warning against encroachment into road reserves and reiterating Government's commitment to enforcing the provisions of the Public Roads Act, 2023 to protect public infrastructure.
The rehabilitation of the Golomoti-Monkey Bay Road represents another milestone in Government's agenda to build a modern, resilient and integrated transport network that supports tourism, trade, investment and inclusive socio-economic development.