By Burnett Munthali

Work to rehabilitate and expand the Liwonde-Matawale road is expected to begin soon in Malawi’s Eastern Region.

Residents who built structures along the roadside in Zomba have already started demolishing their properties to clear space for the project.Mhango Courts Japan for Landmark Area 2–6 Miles Road Expansion

The M3 road between Zomba and Machinga has deteriorated badly over the years and has been neglected by successive administrations.

TWR Malawi visited Matawale and Chinamwali areas on Sunday, May 31, 2026, and observed that structures on the road reserve were being torn down.

Most of the property owners affected by the demolitions have already received compensation payments from the government.Kamphangala accuses government of coming up with punitive Road Traffic charges

One resident from Chinamwali, Major Kaliwo, said he welcomed the road upgrade because it will cut travel time across the region.

He noted that the current road is narrow and riddled with potholes, making journeys slow and dangerous.Armed abduction shocks Lilongwe: cross roads hotel owner Snatched in broad daylight

Many travelers heading from Lilongwe to Blantyre or Zomba currently bypass the M3 and use the Zalewa route to avoid its poor condition.

The government is financing the rehabilitation with a K106 billion loan from the World Bank.

Officials say the construction is scheduled for completion on July 30, 2027.NBM plc gives 1,000 bags of maize relief in Zomba