By Chisomo Phiri
President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has hailed the United States (US) Government for its ongoing support to the Malawi Government through the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC).
Chakwera made the remarks on Thursday during the launch of the Millennium Challenge Cooperative (MCC) Compact 2, also known as the Malawi Transport and Land Compact, at Mzonde Ground in the area of Senior Chief Kalolo in Lilongwe.
The President stated that the commencement of the projects signifies the government’s commitment to improving the country’s infrastructure and the livelihoods of Malawians, ensuring improved transport through the construction of road networks that will help subsistence farmers in the agriculture sector.
In his remarks, Minister of Transport and Public Works, Jacob Hara, commended President Chakwera for achieving a milestone of good governance, which has garnered the trust of developmental partners.
Hara emphasized that MCC Compact 2 projects complement the Malawi 2063 agenda, aligning well with the National Transport Master plan.
He also commended the President for his continued support towards the Ministry of Transport.
On her part, Alice Albright, Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of the Millennium Challenge Corporation, emphasized that Compact 2 will transform the country’s transportation system, economy, and the livelihoods of Malawians.
She added that the Malawi government has also demonstrated a commitment to meaningful change in growing the country’s economy, describing the initiative as remarkable.
Linda Phiri, Board Chairperson of MCC 2, described the project as transformative in enhancing the country’s economy and infrastructure.
She stated that the board of trustees of MCC will work vigorously to ensure progress and the implementation of the project within the five-year time frame.
Member of Parliament(MP) for Lilongwe Mapuyu South Constituency, Esther Cecilia Kathumba, commended President Chakwera for making Malawi a haven of development through the MCC Compact 2 grant and other developments initiated with support from the American Government.
Senior Chief Kalolo commended the government and MCC for initiating the road development project, stating that the project will help enhance mobility and transportation of farm produce for most smallholder farmers in his area to intended markets.
He assured President Chakwera that the community beneficiaries will embrace patriotism by taking full responsibility for the project and restraining vandalism.
