By Burnett Munthali
Dowa, Malawi – President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that all project funds are used for their intended purposes, aiming to facilitate tangible development across the country.
Speaking at Dzoole Trading Centre in Dowa, President Chakwera addressed concerns raised by Dowa West parliamentarian, Dr. Abel Kayembe, about several projects in the area that exist only on paper but have no physical presence.
President Chakwera lamented the misuse of public funds in previous administrations, noting that the government is currently repaying loans for projects that cannot be traced.
“One of the challenges we are facing is that we are repaying some loans which we found, but we do not even know the kind of developments the money was used for,” Chakwera said. “This is pure misuse of people’s resources, and our children will also be affected because they will keep repaying money for nothing.”
The President assured the public that his government is determined to change this trend by ensuring that all funded projects are implemented and visible on the ground.
Dr. Kayembe highlighted the long-standing issue of the Chimwaza-Nambuma-Chisepo-Malembo road, which, despite being marked as constructed and even listed as a tarmac road, remains nonexistent.
“When we make follow-ups, we are told that this road was already constructed, and it is even a tarmac, and we wonder, where is this road?” Kayembe questioned, adding that the absence of such infrastructure deprives the community of development opportunities.
He also urged the government to prioritize building a secondary school in Dzoole, which is currently the only area in Dowa without one.
President Chakwera acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing that his administration is committed to addressing such inefficiencies and delivering equitable development.
“Every project which has been funded must be implemented and seen. That is why we are making sure every money is used for intended purposes and ensure development in all parts of the country, including here in Dzoole,” he said.
Chakwera also criticized individuals who intentionally frustrate government development efforts, vowing to stay the course. “I would like to assure you all that my administration will not be derailed. We will always deliver development and services to the people,” he said.
At Kabwinja Trading Centre, Senior Chief Chakhaza expressed gratitude to the President for delivering visible projects in Dowa, including the Nkholongo multi-purpose dam and the Dowa Dambo Irrigation Scheme.
“These projects are transformative and have significantly impacted our community,” said Senior Chief Chakhaza.
The event showcased the government’s dedication to addressing development disparities and ensuring accountability in the use of public resources.
