Minister of Transport and Public Works, Hon. Jacob Hara, MP, has called for unity of purpose among engineers and all stakeholders in the construction industry.
He made the call on Tuesday, 20 May 2025, during the Inaugural National Construction Day celebrations held at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, under the theme:
“Quality-Driven Construction Industry: Building for Generations.”
The Minister praised the workforce behind the nation’s most iconic and distinguished construction projects, acknowledging them as the foundation of Malawi’s infrastructural transformation.
“Today, we salute the visionaries engineers, architects, artisans, contractors, policymakers, and all hardworking individuals who are the heartbeat of Malawi’s infrastructure development,” he said.
He emphasized that infrastructure plays a critical role in connecting villages to cities, enabling places of worship, bustling markets, vibrant schools, functional hospitals, and secure homes, as construction is the backbone of Malawi’s socio-economic progress.
In addition, the Minister highlighted the transformational infrastructure agenda being advanced under the visionary leadership of H.E. Dr. Lazarus Chakwera, stating that modern infrastructure development remains a top national priority.
“Through Malawi 2063, MIP-1, Annual Budgets, and various public-private partnerships, we are investing in smart infrastructure that is climate-resilient, cost-effective, and accessible to all,” said Hon. Hara.
He also outlined ongoing government initiatives including: the expansion of major highways and bridges in urban centers, upgrading of rural road networks, construction of new school blocks, implementation of irrigation and water supply schemes and modernization of transport hubs.
“These developments are more than just physical structures; they are the foundations for economic activity, job creation, and the promotion of human dignity,” he noted.
Hon. Hara encouraged the youth to see the construction sector as a space for employment, innovation, and leadership, calling for increased support through vocational training and skills development. He urged that National Construction Day be a time for both celebration and renewed commitment to building a structurally sound and inclusive Malawi.
While noting the sector’s progress, he acknowledged challenges such as project delays, quality issues, corruption, and limited local contractor capacity. He also extended gratitude to all stakeholders contributing to Malawi’s infrastructure growth.
The 2025 National Construction Day theme, “Quality-Driven Construction Industry: Building for Generations,” underscores a shared aspiration to shape a Malawi defined by inclusive growth, innovation, and long-term resilience.