Mukhitho hails K2billion Illovo boost as ground broken on new Chikwawa police station
Sugar giant Illovo Sugar Malawi has pledged a staggering K2 billion toward the construction of a brand-new police station in Nchalo, Chikwawa, in a landmark investment designed to dramatically strengthen security for residents and businesses across the district.
The ambitious project was officially launched on Tuesday during a groundbreaking ceremony attended by Minister of Homeland Security Peter Mukhitho, Deputy Minister of Homeland Security Norman Chisale, alongside senior government officials and private-sector representatives.
Addressing the crowd, Mukhitho hailed the initiative as a major milestone in the fight to improve security in Nchalo, insisting that meaningful development simply cannot take place without it.
“We are laying the foundation for security and a safer Nchalo. There can be no meaningful development without security. This will improve security,” he declared.
27 hectares of land handed over for construction
Illovo Sugar Malawi Managing Director Ronald Ngwira confirmed the company had provided a generous 27 hectares of land for the new police station, alongside the substantial K2 billion funding commitment.
Ngwira framed the initiative as the latest chapter in Illovo’s long-standing partnership with the Malawi Government, insisting the company places community safety firmly at the top of its priorities in every area where it operates.
“We have worked together in many ways, and we don’t compromise on safety. Today we are here to celebrate the start of a similar project.
“The presence of the Minister demonstrates government’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at keeping communities safe,” Ngwira said.
Chikwawa District Council Director of Planning and Development, Eric Kenamu, offered his gratitude to Illovo Sugar Malawi for backing the project, describing it as a shining example of how government and private enterprise can join forces to meet the real needs of local communities.
“We sincerely appreciate Illovo Sugar Malawi for supporting the project. This is a good example of government and the private sector coming together to address the needs of communities,” Kenamu said.
The new police station is expected to significantly bolster law enforcement capacity in Nchalo, with officials hopeful that the substantial private-sector investment will pave the way for similar collaborative security initiatives in other districts across Malawi.
