Ministry of Local Government has urged Malawians to take personal responsibility for cleanliness in their communities and urban areas, warning that sanitation cannot be left solely in the hands of partners.
Minister responsible Ben Phiri made the remarks on Tuesday during a clean-up exercise around the newly constructed Lilongwe Bridge, an initiative led by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
“Malawi must stop relying on outsiders to drive sanitation efforts. Cleanliness starts with us as citizens.
“We need to build a strong culture where every individual feels responsible for keeping their surroundings clean,” Phiri emphasised.
The minister also disclosed that government plans are underway to construct a modern market in Lilongwe, aimed at relocating vendors currently operating in undesignated areas. He said the informal vending sites have contributed significantly to indiscriminate waste disposal in the city.
“When vendors operate outside designated areas, waste management becomes a serious challenge. The planned modern market will help restore order and improve sanitation in the city,” Phiri added.
Japanese Ambassador to Malawi, Yasushi Naito, said the clean-up exercise was organised to promote environmental awareness and collective responsibility ahead of the official handover of the Lilongwe Bridge to the Government of Malawi.
“This activity is meant to remind all of us that infrastructure development must go hand in hand with environmental care. The bridge belongs to the people of Malawi, and protecting its surroundings is a shared responsibility,” Naito said.
The official handover of the Lilongwe Bridge is scheduled for Thursday, 12 February 2026.
The Lilongwe Bridge was constructed by the Government of Japan at a cost of K37.4 billion, and is expected to ease traffic congestion and enhance connectivity within the capital city.
By Yankho Kachingwe
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