By Jones Gadama
Minister of Transport and Public Works Jacob Hara has called on local architects to adopt resilient and sustainable design principles to drive national transformation.
Speaking at the 42nd Annual General Meeting and Continuing Professional Development Workshop of the Malawi Institute of Architects in Mangochi, Hara emphasized the critical role architects play in shaping the country’s future.
“Architecture is more than just creating spaces,” Hara said, adding that, “It is about developing designs that are stronger and more resilient to climatic shocks.”
He urged architects to use their profession to build a more sustainable Malawi, aligning with the country’s long-term development plan, Malawi 2063.
Hara described architects as “masters of the future,” highlighting their potential to create transformative designs that can help the country achieve its development goals.
He emphasized the need for architects to prioritize sustainability and resilience in their work.
In a keynote address, Musunka Silungwe, an official with the Zambia Institute of Architects, challenged Malawian architects to adopt a transformative mindset by valuing local resources and talent.
“Countries such as Malawi and Zambia face similar challenges, underutilization of local resources and undervaluing our own capabilities,” Silungwe said.
Malawi Institute of Architects president Khumbo Chirwa echoed these sentiments, stressing that the country’s future depends on visionary architects who can design multipurpose and adaptable structures aligned with national development goals.
“We are committed to helping the country by delivering designs that are resilient, sustainable, and reflective of our evolving needs,” Chirwa said.
The 42nd AGM, themed “Sustainability in construction: The need for flexibility and adaptability,” brought together architects and industry stakeholders to discuss ways of promoting sustainable design and construction practices in Malawi.
The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in achieving national development goals.
By prioritizing sustainable design and construction, architects can play a critical role in shaping Malawi’s future and contributing to the country’s long-term development goals.
