Communities hope for better road access in Mzimba

Residents of communities along the Embangweni-Edingeni-Engalaweni Road (S112) are hopeful of improved access to markets, schools and health facilities after the Malawi Government reaffirmed its commitment to complete the long-delayed road project. The 39.2-kilometre road is regarded as a lifeline for thousands of people in Mzimba District, where poor road conditions have for years made transportation difficult, especially during the rainy season. During an inspection tour of the project on Friday, Minister of Transport and Public Works Jappie Mhango said government has secured renewed support from the Ministry of Finance to mobilise resources that will allow the contractor to resume construction. Mhango acknowledged that funding challenges had delayed the project but stressed that government remains committed to ensuring the road is completed. He said the road is expected to transform the lives of surrounding communities by reducing travel time, lowering transport costs and improving access to essential services such as healthcare and education. The minister added that the project will also make it easier for farmers to transport agricultural produce to markets, boosting household incomes and local economic growth. Former Vice President and Member of Parliament for Mzimba South West Constituency, Khumbo Kachali, said people living along the road have endured years of difficult travel conditions since construction works stalled. He said the minister’s visit had renewed hope among residents that the project will finally be completed, describing the road as essential for the area’s social and economic development. Roads Authority Chief Executive Officer Engineer Joel Longwe said the contractor is expected to return to the site on Monday to resume construction works. He said, subject to continued funding, the project is scheduled for completion by August 2027. The Embangweni-Edingeni-Engalaweni Road is being upgraded under a K94.6 billion Government-funded project implemented by the Roads Authority. Construction began in August 2025 but was suspended due to financial constraints.The project is being executed by China Railway 20 Bureau Group Corporation under the supervision of Pamodzi Consulting Limited. Once completed, the road is expected to strengthen connections between rural communities and major trading centres, improve the movement of people and goods, and contribute to economic growth across Mzimba District and the wider Northern Region.