By Burnett Munthali
Karonga District Commissioner Willard Mwambo has commended communities under Senior Chief Mwakaboko for taking the lead in rehabilitating local roads.
He described the community effort as a clear demonstration of ownership in local development.
Mwambo made the remarks on Monday during a visit to the area.
He was invited by Karonga-Songwe Constituency Member of Parliament Mungasulwa Mwambande to appreciate the ongoing works.
The DC said the visit gave him an opportunity to see firsthand the transport challenges facing residents.
He commended the residents for taking action instead of waiting for government intervention.
“We are impressed that the community has mobilised to improve its road network,” Mwambo said.
“Such efforts complement government programmes and make it easier for people to access essential services,” he added.
Senior Chief Mwakaboko explained that poor road conditions forced the community to mobilise.
He noted that several parts of his area become difficult to access, especially during the rainy season.
According to the chief, the initiative also revives the spirit of the former Youth Week.
During Youth Week, he recalled, communities voluntarily participated in development activities for the common good.
“We decided not to depend entirely on government because our people need better roads now,” said Senior Chief Mwakaboko.
“In the past, communities worked together during Youth Week, and we want to restore that culture of self-reliance,” he added.
Karonga-Songwe Constituency MP Mungasulwa Mwambande said he invited the District Commissioner to witness the situation directly.
He said the aim was for the district council to appreciate the urgency of improving the area’s road infrastructure.
To support the rehabilitation works, Mwambande donated K1.5 million.
District Commissioner Mwambo also contributed K200,000 toward the works.
Senior Chief Mwakaboko further provided K100,000 to support the community effort.
The contributions and community labor are expected to improve access to markets, schools, and health facilities in the area.
Officials say the Mwakaboko example reflects a growing trend of communities partnering with government to deliver development.
