The Malawi Institute of Construction Technicians (Mict) has blamed the poor construction infrastructure in the country on the use of cheap and unqualified labour.

Mict Acting General Secretary, Julius Dangaliro outlined that  project developers must prioritise quality and durability in infrastructure above profitability if the country is to move forward. Last year, following the floods in the capital city, Lilongwe City Council (LCC) Chief Executive Officer John Chome announced that it will demolish all illegal constructions to prevent further loss of life and property.

Also last year, the Roads Funds Administration revealed that the existence of poor roads in the country is because contracts are awarded to the lowest bidder.  The Administration’s Board Chairperson, Chancy Gondwe said procurements are awarded to the lowest price bidder, so most roads have low levels of sustainability because there is keen emphasis on minimising costs. On the other hand, to aim for consistent and sustainable road maintenance, the Administration announced the construction of road user toll fee collection centres to ensure that funds are available for roads maintenance.