By Alfred Banda & Lesnat Kenan
Members of Parliament (MP) have urged government to prioritise infrastructure, education, agriculture and access to water in their respective constituencies.
MP for Nkhotakota-Dwangwa, Dorothy Chikonje said although free secondary education is welcome, many students in rural areas still walk long distances to school due to a shortage of nearby learning facilities.
“Free education is possible, but more school buildings should be constructed to reduce distances learners travel,” she said.
She raised concerns over persistent drug shortages in health facilities and lack of critical health workers, urging the government to complete stalled projects for people to access proper healthcare services.
She appealed to the Central Region Water Board to address continued water shortages affecting communities in Dwangwa, saying residents have been struggling for years without reliable access to clean water.
On agriculture, Chikonje said many people in her constituency fail to access farm inputs and requested the government ensure equitable distribution of resources to help smallholder farmers cope with prolonged dry spells that have affected food production.
She welcomed the government’s K5 billion Infrastructure Development Plan, saying the funds will enhance development if properly used.
MP for Thyolo-Masambanjati, Flavour Kasitomu, said banana farming, once a key source of income in her area, declined after disease wiped out plantations about six years ago and appealed for the government’s support in reviving the sector.
