By Burnett Munthali
In a statement released to the public, the Concerned Citizens group of Malawi has voiced strong concerns over the recent decision by the Ministry of Local Government, Unity, and Culture to allocate MWK 2.7 billion (approximately USD 2.7 million) towards constructing a mausoleum in honor of the late Gwanda Chakuamba in Nsanje District. While Gwanda Chakuamba is celebrated as a significant figure in Malawian history, the Concerned Citizens argue that the timing and scale of this expenditure do not align with the pressing needs of the country.
Comrade Edwards Kambanje, a spokesperson for the group, articulated the group’s stance: “We respect Gwanda Chakuamba’s legacy and contributions to Malawi. However, with the multiple crises currently facing our nation, we must question the urgency and prioritization of this project. We believe the funds could be redirected to address issues that directly impact the well-being of Malawians right now.”
Malawi’s Pressing Challenges
The Concerned Citizens have highlighted three critical issues they believe warrant urgent attention and resources: food insecurity, fuel shortages, and healthcare deficiencies.
- Food Insecurity
Kambanje described the dire state of food insecurity in the country, noting that reports from across Malawi indicate severe shortages of basic food supplies. “Some citizens are reportedly resorting to eating wild tubers to survive,” he stated, “which speaks to the severity of the food crisis. The government needs to act immediately to ensure access to basic necessities.”
The Concerned Citizens suggest that the funds earmarked for the mausoleum could instead be directed toward purchasing maize and other essential staples, enabling ADMARC and other food distribution networks to provide relief to struggling Malawians. “Food security is a fundamental need, and it should be prioritized,” said Kambanje.
- Fuel Crisis
The group emphasized the debilitating effects of the ongoing fuel shortages that have crippled transportation and economic activities. Kambanje pointed out that the lack of fuel is affecting nearly every sector of Malawian society—from healthcare, where transportation of essential supplies has been hindered, to agriculture and commerce. “Fuel is a lifeline for the economy,” he said. “Allocating resources to stabilize the fuel supply would have an immediate and far-reaching impact on productivity and daily life.” - Healthcare Shortages
Another critical issue the Concerned Citizens brought to light is the shortage of essential drugs in public hospitals and clinics. The group stressed that many Malawians are unable to access necessary medical treatments, leaving patients at risk. “Our public healthcare system is in crisis,” Kambanje explained. “Redirecting funds to procure and distribute medical supplies would directly improve health outcomes and support the well-being of our people.”
A Call for Reassessing Priorities
While the group acknowledges the importance of commemorating historical figures, they argue that prioritizing a mausoleum project during an economic crisis is misguided. Kambanje appealed to government officials to reconsider the timing of this project. “The health, stability, and well-being of Malawians should come first,” he stated. “Honoring our past leaders is essential, but it should not come at the expense of addressing the urgent needs of our citizens.”
The Concerned Citizens are urging the Ministry of Local Government, Unity, and Culture, along with other government agencies, to show empathy and compassion by prioritizing initiatives that have tangible impacts on people’s lives. “Allocating MWK 2.7 billion to a symbolic project in the midst of widespread suffering does not demonstrate sensitivity to the realities facing Malawians today,” Kambanje said. “We call on our leaders to reflect on what truly matters right now.”
A Call for Compassionate Governance
The group’s statement also expressed disappointment with the government’s response to Malawi’s most urgent crises, describing its current approach as lacking compassion. “A government that fails to prioritize the immediate needs of its people is no different from a ‘dead government,’” Kambanje said. “True leadership means making tough decisions that put the welfare of citizens first, especially during times of crisis.”
Kambanje and the Concerned Citizens argue that compassionate governance is essential to sustainable development and the country’s future stability. They believe that by redirecting resources toward immediate needs, the government can demonstrate its commitment to improving the lives of all Malawians.
Alternatives to Honor Chakuamba’s Legacy
The Concerned Citizens do not oppose the commemoration of Gwanda Chakuamba but propose more cost-effective and less resource-intensive options. For instance, they suggest establishing educational scholarships in Chakuamba’s name, which would honor his legacy while directly benefiting future generations. “There are numerous ways to
