Minister of Transport and Public Works, Hon. Jappie Mhango, on Friday commissioned the reconstructed and expanded M1 Road from Crossroads Roundabout to Kanengo in Lilongwe,
marking the completion of a major infrastructure project funded by the People’s Republic of China. The project was officially handed over to the Government of Malawi by Chinese Ambassador to Malawi, Lu Xu.
The 9.5-kilometre stretch has been upgraded into a four-lane dual carriageway, complete with two bridges, 17 culverts, as well as dedicated bicycle lanes and pedestrian walkways. Implemented between December 2021 and December 2024, the project was completed at a cost of approximately US$25 million (about MK44 billion).
Mhango said the upgrade has significantly eased congestion, improved mobility, and reduced travel time along one of Lilongwe’s busiest corridors.
“We used to have a nightmare moving from town to Kamuzu International Airport, but that is now history,” he said
He described the project as a major milestone in urban transport development and reaffirmed government’s commitment to expanding and modernising road infrastructure to drive economic growth.
In her remarks, Ambassador Lu Xu said the project reflects the strong cooperation between Malawi and China, noting that the completed stretch is a grant from the People’s Republic of China. She added that plans are underway to extend the road from Kanengo to Kamuzu International Airport, with China ready to support the next phase once preparatory processes are finalised.
The upgraded road is expected to enhance connectivity, improve road safety, and support economic activity within the capital.