Ministry engages Blantyre City Council on services
Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture Richard Chimwendo Banda has advised Blantyre City Council to improve sanitation and security to enhance the country’s outlook.
He said this on Wednesday in Blantyre during the first Blantyre City summit under the theme ‘A livable, safe and vibrant city’, which, among others which focused on waste management, urban security and street vending.
Said Chimwendo Banda: “The summit is critical as it focuses on improving service delivery. Blantyre City is focusing on three areas, which if addressed, will improve service delivery.
“Gone are the times we should complain about refuse collection. We should ensure that our cities are clean, but at the same time, improve security within the city and residential areas to create a conducive environment for business.”
during the summit
He said the summit will be conducted every six months to allow duty-bearers and stakeholders to report the progress and areas to improve.
Said Chimwendo Banda: “Today is about residents agreeing what must be done, find tangible implementation plan and from there, we will review and report on waste management, security and street vending issues.
“It’s not a matter of chasing vendors, but ensuring that everyone understands the narrative to improve service deliver.”
Blantyre City Council Mayor Wild Ndipo asked stakeholders to work together with the council to improve the city.
He said: “We are looking at bringing back the glory of Blantyre as it used to be known as a clean and safe city. Over time, we have seen that Blantyre is not safe and clean.
“This is why we decided to bring together all stakeholders and discuss what we can do to make the city livable.”
Public Private Partnership Commission chief executive officer Patrick Kabambe said if Blantyre is to attain its lost glory, stakeholder engagement is the way to go.
“If Blantyre is to remain a major commercial city in Malawi, a city where all citizens will be satisfied, it is important that all stakeholders contribute towards the development of the vision,” he said.
