Karonga CSOs threaten M1 Road vigil over rehabilitation delays

Karonga civil society organisations have threatened to hold a vigil along the Chiweta-Karonga M1 Road from November 2, 2026, if the government fails to commence rehabilitation works.

Karonga Civil Society Network Chairperson Edgar Phiri said the planned action is aimed at pressing the government to honour its commitment to rehabilitate the deteriorating road, which has continued to affect motorists and other road users.

Speaking during a press briefing, Phiri said the civil society groups want construction works to start before the onset of the rainy season, warning that further delays could worsen the condition of the road and increase difficulties for communities and businesses that rely on the route.

Meanwhile, Justice and Peace Project Officer Alick Gondwe has reminded authorities to ensure that works commence by November 1, in line with the commitment made by the Ministry of Transport in July.

The development comes after the Roads Authority confirmed that the tender evaluation process for the project had been completed, with contractors recommended for the two sections awaiting government approval.

The project has been divided into two lots, covering the Chiweta-Wovwe Bridge and Wovwe Bridge-Karonga sections, with the Roads Authority indicating that construction is expected to begin in November.

The Chiweta-Karonga section of the M1, which connects northern Malawi to Tanzania, has been in poor condition for years, with road users reporting increased travel times, vehicle damage and difficulties navigating some sections.

Earlier this year, civil society organisations also raised concerns over delays in rehabilitating the road, citing the impact of its condition on transport, businesses and communities along the route.

Government had initially indicated that rehabilitation works would start in September but later shifted the commencement date to November following changes to the bidding requirements that affected the procurement process.

The Roads Authority has since said funding for the rehabilitation has been secured, while the recommended contractors are awaiting government approval before contracts can be awarded.