The Mangochi South Constituency Development Fund (CDF) has earmarked K3,600,000,000.00 (K3.6 billion) for six major development projects aimed at improving roads, education and healthcare across the constituency.
The six projects were selected from a broader list of 22 proposed initiatives and are expected to receive immediate funding.
The projects were launched during the official launch of the Mangochi South Reformed Constituency Fund at Namasimba Primary School ground in the area of Senior Chief Bwananyambi. Speaking at the event, Mangochi South Member of Parliament Bilal Mussa described the launch as a game changer but warned contractors to deliver on time, follow government regulations and respect local traditions.
Mussa said the timing was critical because the rainy season is approaching and residents urgently need the works completed.
“We are now pushing into the rainy season, and people are in dire need of this work so that it should be constructed. I am looking forward to it,” he said.
The MP acknowledged that many projects had been selected for funding and that residents were desperate for development.
“With this kind of development, it will help differently. We don’t need to explain much about it, but I know it is going to create change,” he added.
He also cautioned contractors against corruption and the exploitation of underage children on construction sites, saying such practices violate government rules and regulations.
Mussa further urged contractors coming from outside the area to respect local customs and traditions.
“We respect them, and they should respect us back. With that, we can move forward in goodness and respect,” he said.
Roads get over K2.1 billion
A significant portion of the budget, more than K2.1 billion, is dedicated to improving the road network to ease transportation and boost local economic activity.
· Kelch Construction has been contracted to upgrade the Masuku–Nangalore via Nakapa road at a cost of K1,318,063,067.41.
· DAC/CLP Construction JV will handle two major road projects: the upgrading of the Mkambiri via Nyenyezi road, valued at K558,840,686.45, and the grading and gravelling of the 8km Somba via Milere road at K242,788,529.39.
Investing in education
To improve education quality and teacher accommodation, substantial funds have been allocated to school infrastructure.
· Mandala Construction will construct two double classroom blocks, one semi-detached staff house and three double VIP toilets at Malimbasa Primary School at a cost of K834,860,432.56.
· Aonenji Building Contractors will build two staff houses and two single pit latrines at Nangalinje School for K447,465,268.07.
Enhancing healthcare facilities
In the health sector, CBEES Construction has been awarded a contract to construct a 700-metre perimeter fence at Mkumba Health Centre at a cost of K197,982,016.12.
The fence is expected to improve security and the overall operational environment of the facility.
Monitoring and accountability
Speaking on behalf of Senior Chief Bwananyambi, Group Village Headperson Nayipwi praised the MP for facilitating development projects expected to ease challenges facing residents, especially expectant mothers who travel by ambulance on poor roads to reach health facilities.
Mangochi District Council Principal Community Development Officer Dalitso Mndinda said the council, through the Project Steering Committee, District Executive Committee, Area Development Committee, Village Development Committee and project teams, will monitor progress against the approved work programme, enforce the contract and ensure quality and environmental compliance.
“We will not allow the contractor to harm the environment. Where there is delay, poor quality or environmental damage, we will use the contract and relevant laws to ensure compliance and completion on time,” he said.
CBEES Construction senior official Elliot Chimphepo assured quality workmanship and said the company would not recruit children during construction of the 700-metre perimeter fence at Mkumba Health Centre.
The allocation demonstrates a strong commitment by the Mangochi South CDF to equitable development. While the six projects represent the current earmarked funding, they form part of a larger list of 22 proposed projects intended to comprehensively uplift the constituency.
Meanwhile, Mangochi District, including Mangochi Municipality, has so far received K65 billion for development projects.
