By Burnett Munthali
Malawi’s poor road network is hindering development, with some of the country’s best-known artists, like Lawrence Khwisa (Lulu), being affected. Lulu had to cancel a performance in Vumbwe, Thyolo, due to two flat tires caused by potholes on the road.
The condition of Malawi’s roads is a major concern, with many roads being narrow, potholed, and unpaved, even in the capital city, Lilongwe. This is despite the government collecting significant revenue from toll gates, such as the K5.4 billion collected by the Roads Fund Administration (RFA).
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament has summoned RFA officials to explain the poor state of roads, citing lack of proper monitoring and evaluation during construction. The PAC Chairperson, Mark Botomani, expressed frustration over the prolonged delays in maintaining and rehabilitating road networks, particularly the M1 Road.
The government’s transport policy aims to improve infrastructure and innovation, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 9. However, implementation remains a challenge, with corruption and misuse of public funds contributing to the problem.
