By Jones Gadama
The Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Honourable Chimwemwe Chipungu, says providing affordable and sustainable housing for civil servants is among his top priorities.
Chipungu made the remarks on Wednesday in Lilongwe during a meeting with European Union Ambassador to Malawi, His Excellency Daniel Aristi Gaztelumendi. The courtesy call was held at the Ministry’s headquarters.
The Minister expressed concern that many government workers retire without owning decent homes.
He sa
id his Ministry is exploring mechanisms that can help civil servants access housing early in their careers.
“It is disheartening to see civil servants retire without owning decent homes. I would appreciate a housing solution where civil servants can access housing loans linked to their salaries, enabling them to own homes before retirement,” Chipungu said.
He also thanked the EU for its continued partnership with Malawi, especially in the land sector, and expressed hope that the collaboration can be expanded to address housing challenges.
Ambassador Gaztelumendi, in his remarks, said a number of the Ministry’s goals align with ongoing EU-supported programmes in the country. He pledged the bloc’s continued support through technical assistance and closer engagement on priority areas.
The EU is currently supporting the Ministry through the UCHI Project. According to the Ambassador, the initiative has helped improve land governance, strengthened security of tenure on customary land, and promoted climate resilience. The project has also contributed to broader socio-economic development in targeted areas.
The meeting comes at a time when government is under pressure to address Malawi’s housing deficit, particularly for low and middle-income public workers.
Chipungu said his Ministry will continue engaging development partners to mobilize resources and expertise needed to deliver affordable housing solutions across the country.
