By Burnett Munthali

Minister of Mining and Malawi Congress Party (MCP) aspiring Member of Parliament for Nkhata-Bay South Constituency, Kenneth Zikhale Ng’oma, has pledged to build a university in his area if elected into office.

Ng’oma made the announcement during a gathering held at Tukombo in Nkhata-Bay.

He explained that his vision is centered on improving the welfare of the community through strategic developments.

Among the key plans he unveiled is the construction of a filling station to reduce the long distances that residents currently travel to access fuel.

The minister pointed out that motorists face difficulties because there is only one filling station at Chintheche Trading Centre and another in Dwangwa.

He emphasized that this challenge compels people to travel long distances, thereby affecting productivity and development in the area.

Ng’oma declared that his pledge goes beyond immediate needs and is aimed at securing the long-term future of the constituency.

“We have one filling station at Chintheche Trading Centre and another in Dwangwa. This makes it difficult for motorists to access fuel. That is why I am also planning to construct a university right here in my constituency,” he said.

The announcement was received with enthusiasm by community members who see the plan as an opportunity for Nkhata-Bay South to emerge as a hub for higher education.

The minister reiterated that education is the cornerstone of progress and that building a university will not only benefit the youth of Nkhata-Bay South but the entire nation.

He added that such an institution would empower young people with skills, knowledge, and opportunities that can transform lives.

The pledge reflects a broader trend in Malawi’s politics where infrastructure development and access to education are becoming central themes in electoral campaigns.

Ng’oma’s promise positions him as a leader keen on addressing both the immediate and future needs of his constituency.

Profile: Kenneth Zikhale Ng’oma

Kenneth Zikhale Ng’oma is a seasoned Malawian politician and academic.

He currently serves as Minister of Mining in President Lazarus Chakwera’s administration.

Ng’oma has held various government and party positions over the years, earning a reputation as a strategist and policy advocate within the Malawi Congress Party.

He is also known for his contributions to national dialogue on governance, economic reform, and social development.

Beyond politics, Ng’oma has a strong academic background, having studied both in Malawi and abroad.

His career reflects a blend of political leadership, technical expertise, and community engagement.

As an aspiring Member of Parliament for Nkhata-Bay South, he has consistently highlighted education, infrastructure, and equitable development as his main priorities.

*Conclusion*

Zikhale Ng’oma’s pledge to build a university in Nkhata-Bay South is both ambitious and timely.

While the constituency faces pressing challenges such as inadequate fuel access, the vision to establish a university demonstrates foresight and a commitment to long-term development.

If implemented, the plan has the potential to change the educational and economic landscape of the area.

However, as with many campaign promises, its success will depend on sustained political will, resource mobilization, and accountability.

For the people of Nkhata-Bay South, the coming elections will be an opportunity to weigh this vision against practical realities and decide whether Ng’oma’s pledge aligns with their aspirations.