By Clever Mwale:
The government’s ambitious pledge to construct roads that are capable of lasting at least 20 years before requiring major rehabilitation has drawn scepticism from governance advocates and ordinary Malawians, who argue that the commitment is unrealistic due to massive corruption.
Transport and Public Works Minister Jappie Mhango made the commitment in Parliament on Friday, saying the government wanted to shift from constructing roads that deteriorate within a few years to durable infrastructure built to much higher standards.
“The new approach would ensure roads remain in good condition for decades before undergoing major repairs,” Mhango said.
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However, he acknowledged that Malawi’s heavy public debt had significantly slowed road infrastructure development works.
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However, some stakeholders have said nipping corruption in the bud is key to the success of the strategy.
Lilongwe-based taxi operator John Chingeu said “what the government is planning to do is good but can’t be achieved unless the government changes it’s approach to economic recovery” by flushing out corrupt elements.
Another road user, Portia Phiri, said handling toll fees with transparency was key to ensuring that the country’s roads were durable.
National Advocacy Platform Chairperson Benedicto Kondowe said the minister’s remarks appeared more political than practical.
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“Based on our own experience, no road has, for the last 20 years, been constructed to last for 20 years. No wonder, potholes begin to appear sooner rather than later,” Kondowe said.
On the other hand, People’s Federation for National Peace and Development Executive Director Edward Chaka said the idea was doable.
“Contractors work according to funds that have been budgeted for a project. If the funds are enough, it is possible to have roads that last 20 years or more before developing potholes.
“The government should only ensure that funds are available for it to have value for money on road projects,” Chaka said.
