By Yvonne Chambo

The Roads Authority (RA) says all preparations have been completed for the commencement of rehabilitation works on the 47.9-kilometre Liwonde–Matawale stretch of the M3 Road.

RA’s Environmental Safeguard Specialist for the project, Benjamin Kamanga, disclosed this on Wednesday during a public consultation meeting with officials from Zomba District and City Councils.

The project is being funded by the World Bank through the Southern Africa Trade and Connectivity Project to the tune of over K100 billion.

Kamanga said both the contractor and the project consultant are ready to begin work following the approval of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment report.

“The Malawi Environment Protection Authority and the World Bank both approved the report, paving the way for the project to commence this month until 30 July 2027,” Kamanga said.

He added that the road is expected to have a lifespan of 20 years.

Kamanga also said measures have been put in place to prevent cases of gender-based violence in communities along the project corridor in Zomba and Machinga districts.

Director of Planning and Development for Zomba District Council, Isaac Mkandawire, said the project will ease transportation of goods and boost trade activities.

“The project will also create employment opportunities for people living along the road corridor,” Mkandawire said.