By Jones Gadama
President Peter Mutharika has once again demonstrated why Malawians call him a compassionate and people-centered leader.
In a decisive and generous move, the President has directed that a portion of the contested land at Nantipwiri Palm View Estate in Thyolo be shared among local farming families who have lived and toiled there for years.
The directive was communicated today by Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Chimwemwe Chipungu, MP, during a stakeholders’ meeting with farmer representatives at Thyolo District Council.
Minister Chipungu told the gathering that despite previous court rulings, President Mutharika carefully considered numerous petitions from the affected communities.
In his wisdom, the President resolved that out of the more than 1,300 plots earmarked for sale at the estate, local farmers should also benefit.
“His Excellency President Peter Mutharika has heard the cry of the people of Thyolo. Though the matter went through the courts, he chose compassion. He has ordered that part of this land be given to the people for farming,” Chipungu said.
The Minister praised the President’s leadership, describing it as a rare blend of firmness and kindness.
He noted that while development must continue, no Malawian should be left behind in the process.
Chipungu also issued a stern warning that the land allocated to farmers must not be sold.
He said government will put in place a transparent process to identify the 836 deserving beneficiaries.
According to the Ministry, 709 plots currently fall under Thyolo District Council, with the balance under the Ministry of Lands.
Last week, the Council had announced plans to sell the entire estate for commercial and residential purposes.
That announcement sparked anxiety among families who depend on the land.
Group Village Headman William and Chairperson of the concerned farmers, Hussein Dickson Chiwalo, welcomed the President’s intervention with gratitude.
“We are deeply thankful to President Mutharika. He has shown that he listens. This decision has brought peace to 836 farmers and their families. For us, this is the end of a long struggle,” Chiwalo said.
Political analysts say the move reinforces President Mutharika’s reputation as a considerate leader who balances development with human welfare.
At a time when land disputes are rising across the country, his intervention in Thyolo is being hailed as a model of responsive governance.
With Hon. Chimwemwe Chipungu on the ground driving the process, government says the beneficiary identification exercise will begin immediately to ensure farmers get security of tenure without further delay.
For the people of Nantipwiri, the message is clear: under President Peter Mutharika’s leadership, development and compassion can walk together.
