By Wendy Mkandawire
Minister of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development Chimwemwe Chipungu has called for concerted efforts among stakeholders to support vulnerable citizens as Malawi pushes for safer and more resilient housing.
Chipungu made this statement during the launch of Habitat for Humanity Malawi’s 2025-2030 Strategic Plan in Lilongwe, stressing that the government cannot address the housing gap alone.
He urged the private sector, civil society, and development partners to join in ensuring that every Malawian has access to decent shelter.
” The housing challenge is too huge for the government alone, highlighting the need for a concerted effort in addressing the gap”, he added.
According to the minister, everyone deserves safer and more resilient homes, specifically for those affected by disasters.
Hence, the ministry is dedicated to creating a favorable environment for all stakeholders to contribute and emulate Habitat’s gesture.
Habitat for Humanity Malawi Programs Director Mavuto Kholowa said the 5-year plan targets over 12,000 people, with a focus on those affected by natural disasters.
He said that under the plan, Habitat will construct 800 new houses and maintain 1,600 houses in disaster-affected districts.
He further stated that it will also expand programs in decent and affordable housing, disaster response, and water and sanitation, including water supply, off-grid energy solutions, and economic empowerment.
Kholowa said the organization has supported families affected by disasters, including Cyclone Freddy, and expanded access to clean water and sanitation over the past four decades.
The launch also marked Habitat’s 40 years of service in Malawi.
The government said it will align the strategy with the Malawi 2063 agenda on urbanization and disaster risk reduction.
