Julita Chitseko
Traditional leaders under the banner of the Karonga Chiefs Council have joined civil society organizations in calling for the urgent rehabilitation of the Karonga–Chiweta section of the M1 Road.
The chiefs have thrown their support behind the campaign being led by Karonga Civil Society Organizations (KACSON), describing the condition of the road as a matter of serious concern for residents and road users.
Speaking during a media engagement held on Wednesday at the Karonga Museum Amphitheatre Hall, Paramount Chief Kyungu of Karonga and Chitipa Districts said the road has been neglected for far too long.
He described the state of the highway as an emergency situation, citing numerous potholes and deteriorating sections that continue to endanger motorists and passengers.
Paramount Chief Kyungu said the poor condition of the road is affecting access to essential services, particularly healthcare for people in the northern region.
He noted that patients, including pregnant women being referred to Mzuzu Central Hospital for specialized treatment, are experiencing significant difficulties travelling on the damaged road.
The traditional leader therefore called on relevant authorities to prioritize rehabilitation works to improve safety and ease transportation challenges faced by communities.
Meanwhile, Executive Director for Foundation for Women and Girls Empowerment (FOWOGE), an affiliate of KACSON, Christobel Mnthali, said the support from traditional leaders strengthens the campaign for road rehabilitation.
Mnthali said the chiefs’ endorsement demonstrates that the demand for the rehabilitation of the Karonga–Chiweta M1 Road represents the collective voice and shared concerns of the people of Karonga.
