By Suleman Chitera
Minister of Homeland Security Peter Mukhito has reaffirmed government’s strong commitment to addressing challenges facing the Malawi Police Service, describing the service as a cornerstone of national stability and public safety.
Mukhito made the assurance on Friday during a familiarisation visit to the national police headquarters at Area 30 in Lilongwe, where he engaged with police leadership and inspected ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at improving officers’ welfare and operational effectiveness.
The minister said government fully appreciates the critical role the police play in maintaining law and order and safeguarding citizens, stressing that resolving operational, logistical, and welfare-related challenges remains a top priority. He emphasized that a well-supported police service is essential for professional, efficient, and people-centred policing.
As part of the visit, Mukhito inspected the construction of police officers’ houses at the headquarters and assured officers that government is committed to completing the project within the stipulated timeframe. He said decent accommodation is vital to boosting morale, motivation, and overall performance among officers.
Inspector General of Police Richard Luhanga welcomed the minister’s visit, describing it as a strong show of political goodwill and support. He said the engagement provided an opportunity for police management to directly brief government on the service’s operational status and priority needs.
Luhanga noted that while the police continue to deliver under challenging conditions, addressing welfare concerns and logistical gaps would significantly enhance service delivery and public confidence. He expressed optimism that the visit would lead to tangible interventions that strengthen policing capacity across the country.
In a solemn and symbolic gesture, Mukhito and his deputy Norman Chisale laid wreaths at the national police headquarters memorial tower in honour of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, reaffirming government’s respect and gratitude for their sacrifice.
The visit underscored government’s resolve to work closely with the Malawi Police Service, not only to appreciate the dedication of officers, but also to gain first-hand insight into the challenges they face—an approach aimed at building a more resilient, professional, and well-equipped police service for the nation.
