By Twink Jones Gadama
A governance activist, George Chaima, is sounding the alarm on the Malawi government’s project funding approach, emphasizing the need for secured funding sources before embarking on new initiatives.
The caution comes on the heels of the Malawi Building and Civil Allied Traders Association (MABCATA) threatening to take over tollgates due to unpaid arrears of 15 billion kwacha from various road maintenance and rehabilitation works.
Chaima stresses that conducting thorough due diligence is crucial to avoid potential pitfalls.
“The government must ensure that funding sources are identified and approved before starting any project,” he says.
The activist says this would prevent unnecessary delays, financial losses, and disputes with contractors.
The recent dispute between MABCATA and the Roads Fund Administration (RFA) highlights the importance of secure funding.
The government’s failure to settle outstanding arrears led to MABCATA’s drastic measure, which was only halted by a court injunction.
This issue is not isolated, as community organizations and social services face similar challenges due to project-based funding regimes.
Research has shown that such funding models can lead to limited service capacity, growing waiting lists, declining volunteer numbers, and staff burnout
In Malawi, where infrastructure development is critical, ensuring stable funding is vital.
Chaima’s call to action echoes concerns raised by experts, who advocate for long-term funding solutions to support community-based services.
By adopting a more secure and transparent funding approach, the Malawi government can mitigate risks, ensure successful project delivery, and promote sustainable development.
As the government moves forward, it must heed Chaima’s warning and prioritize funding security to avoid similar disputes and ensure the success of its projects.
