By Rahim Abdul
Minister of Lands, Deus Gumba, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to bringing land services closer to the people while warning citizens against acquiring land through illegal means.
Speaking during a press briefing in Area 43, Lilongwe, Gumba said government has deployed land clerks to all 319 traditional authorities and stationed 38 land officers in district councils to ensure that Malawians can easily access reliable land information and services.
He stressed that this decentralization drive is aimed at curbing corruption, ending land disputes, and providing fair access to land resources.
At the same time, Gumba cautioned against the growing tendency of individuals constructing houses and business structures without approval.
He noted that such practices not only fuel land wrangles but also compromise urban planning and safety.
In recent weeks, the Ministry of Lands, in collaboration with the Malawi Defence Force and Lilongwe City Council, has demolished illegal structures in prime locations such as Area 43 and Area 10.
Gumba explained that some plots were reserved for public infrastructure while others were unsafe for human settlement.
He urged Malawians to follow proper procedures when acquiring land by approaching government offices, local councils, or the Malawi Housing Corporation.
“Land belongs to all of us, but we must respect laws that govern its use if we are to build a safe and organized nation,” Gumba said.
