By Jones Gadama
The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development has challenged stakeholders to go beyond rubber-stamping and bring real technical expertise to the table as it finalizes its Strategic Plan, a document officials say will define the sector’s direction under President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika’s administration.
The call was made on Tuesday in Lilongwe by Director of Administration in the Ministry, Gloria Sanders, during the official opening of a stakeholders’ validation workshop for the plan.
Sanders said the meeting was not meant to be a formality, but a working session where experts could scrutinize and strengthen the proposed strategic direction.
“We are calling upon you to come with your technical expertise and help us enrich this Strategic Plan. We do not want you to be spectators or simply endorse the document. We want your meaningful input,” Sanders told participants.
She noted that the plan is being developed through wide consultation to ensure it reflects the actual challenges, priorities and expectations of Malawians in land, housing and urban development.
The push comes at a time when the Mutharika administration has been credited for driving reforms aimed at improving land administration, expanding access to decent housing, and promoting orderly urban growth.
Government officials say the President’s commitment to accountable and coordinated development is what has made such inclusive planning possible.
Line Minister Chimwemwe Chipungu has also been hailed for providing leadership and political will to ensure the Ministry delivers a practical roadmap that aligns with the President’s development agenda.
Stakeholders say Chipungu’s hands-on approach has opened space for both public and private players to contribute to policy.
Chief Executive Officer of ERIS Properties MW Limited, Washington Chimuzu, commended the Ministry for the initiative.
He said a clear Strategic Plan will help streamline priorities, improve coordination, and attract investment into the sector.
“As ERIS Properties, we commend the Ministry for taking this important step. A clear strategic direction will guide priorities, strengthen collaboration among stakeholders and contribute to sustainable development in Malawi,” Chimuzu said.
He also thanked NBS Bank Plc for sponsoring the validation meeting, saying partnerships between government and the private sector are key to delivering national development goals.
The workshop drew participants from academia, professional bodies, government ministries, civil society organizations and other key players.
They spent the day reviewing the draft Strategic Plan and providing technical recommendations ahead of its finalization.
Officials say once adopted, the Strategic Plan will serve as the Ministry’s blueprint for delivering on President Mutharika’s vision of transparent land management, affordable housing, and well-planned urban centers across Malawi.
