By Roy Howa

Lilongwe, June 24, Mana: Government has assured communities at Mayani in Dedza district that the upgrading of the 64-kilometer Nkhoma–Mayani–Dedza Road will proceed as planned, with preparatory works already underway.

Minister of Transport and Public Works, Jappie Mhango, MP, gave the assurance on Tuesday during a visit to Mayani, where he inspected progress on preparatory works for the project.

He said government remains committed to the road, describing it as a key economic and social link for surrounding communities.

“My coming here was to assure people of this area that government is determined and committed to making sure that this road is constructed. That is why in the budget there is an allocation provided for this road,” said Mhango.

He added that once design works are completed, government expects to float tenders for contractors by around October, paving the way for construction works to begin.

Mhango further emphasized the need to address encroachment along the road reserve, saying structures built within the designated space must be removed to allow smooth implementation of the project.

“Government would not be willing to spend money compensating people who have encroached on the road reserve. Those structures must be removed because the law has already been broken,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dedza North Member of Parliament Savel Kwafwafwa said the road will improve transport for farm produce and access to health services, especially for communities relying on Nkhoma and Dedza district hospitals.

He said Mayani Trading Centre will also benefit through improved access to markets for crops such as Irish potatoes, beans and maize.

The project, being handled by Pamodzi Consultancy Limited through design and supervision works, is expected to reach procurement stage soon.

The construction of the 64-kilometer Nkhoma- Mayani- Dedza is part of government efforts to improve rural road connectivity and stimulate economic growth in agricultural areas.