By Rahim Abdul
The Ministry of Lands’ recent initiative to protect public land from encroachment has sparked a renewed sense of purpose among district councils, local leaders, and residents in Mangochi.
The meeting, held under the auspices of Traditional Authority Chowe, brought together key stakeholders to prepare land use plans for group village areas, marking a significant step towards safeguarding public land and promoting sustainable development.
At the heart of the initiative is the Ministry’s determination to address the widespread issue of individuals occupying public land meant for government entities, such as Ministry of Agriculture offices or schools.
Commissioner for Physical Planning, Robins Lukasi, emphasized that this behavior is not only serious but also widespread, and that the ministry will deal with it decisively using the law.
The meeting’s focus on land use planning is crucial in ensuring that public land is used for its intended purposes, including infrastructure development and farming.
By defining land types, registering them, and addressing encroachment and disputes, the council, local leaders, and residents will work together to create a more sustainable and equitable future for all Malawians.
Annet Mlenga, Acting Environmental Officer at Mangochi, stressed the importance of environmental protection during development, highlighting the need for developers to preserve vegetation and ensure proper waste management.
As the Ministry of Lands continues to push forward with its efforts to protect public land, it is clear that this initiative is a crucial step towards achieving the Malawi 2063 Vision.
