Government has warned contractors, engineers, architects and other players in the construction industry that it will no longer tolerate corruption, poor workmanship and professional misconduct, saying offenders risk sanctions and exclusion from the sector.
Speaking during Construction Day celebrations in Lilongwe on Friday, Minister of Transport Jappie Mhango said while the country’s universities produce qualified professionals, some industry players have become “morally bankrupt” by engaging in corruption and bribery, undermining national development.
Said the minister: “We do not believe our universities are training thieves. They are training professionals.
“But today, among us are people who are morally bankrupt, indulging in corruption, bribery and all sorts of malpractices. My plea is simple: you will not be designing buildings in prison cells.”
He said government is stepping up efforts to enforce professionalism, quality standards and ethical conduct across the construction sector, warning that compliance with industry regulations is non-negotiable.
Mhango observed that substandard infrastructure wastes public resources, increases maintenance costs and endangers lives.
“Poor quality infrastructure is unacceptable. It is costly, unsustainable and compromises public safety. It results in frequent repairs, escalating maintenance costs and ultimately undermines public confidence in government investments,” the minister said.
He urged contractors, consultants, engineers and architects to deliver durable, safe and reliable infrastructure that offers value for money.
“Quality infrastructure is not merely about concrete, steel and asphalt. It is about safeguarding lives, protecting public resources, fostering economic growth and preserving national pride,” Mhango said.
Weighing in, Construction Industry Regulatory Authority (Cira) board chairperson Peter Matipwiri echoed the minister’s sentiments, saying the regulator will strictly enforce professional standards to build a competitive and ethical construction industry.
He also appealed to commercial banks to make financing more affordable for construction firms.
On his part, Habitat for Humanity Malawi programmes director Mavuto Kholowa said improving construction quality not only protects lives but also saves resources.
He urged industry players to embrace environmentally friendly building materials, including interlocking stabilised soil bricks, to help address climate change.
Blantyre Water Board senior public relations officer Evelyn Khonje stated that the utility is prioritising quality in major infrastructure projects, including a water bottling plant awaiting commissioning and new reservoirs under the Malawi Water and Sanitation Project.
Construction Day, introduced by Cira last year, provides a platform for industry stakeholders to review progress, discuss challenges and promote higher standards in Malawi’s construction sector.
