Minister Mhango warns against corruption in construction sector

Minister of Transport and Public Works Jappie Mhango has warned that government will not tolerate corruption in Malawi’s construction sector, saying all industry players must uphold integrity and professionalism.

Speaking on Friday during National Construction Day commemorations in Lilongwe, Mhango said the construction industry has for years been tainted by corruption, undermining public confidence and the quality of infrastructure projects.

“We expect everyone in the construction value chain to conduct themselves with integrity and adhere to the highest ethical standards,” said Mhango.

He said the ministry will work closely with the Construction Industry Regulatory Authority (CIRA) to crack down on corrupt practices, stressing that the regulator has the authority to act against offenders.

“CIRA has the mandate and the teeth to bite anyone involved in corruption,” he said.

CIRA Board Chairperson Engineer Peter Matipwiri said the authority has established regulatory frameworks and guidelines aimed at promoting accountability and eliminating corruption in the industry.

He revealed that CIRA has deployed technical audit teams to inspect construction projects nationwide, including private developments, and will also audit the K1.4 trillion Constituency Development Fund (CDF) projects in all districts.

Matipwiri further announced that CIRA has recognised 18 individuals for demonstrating integrity after they rejected bribes, including large sums of money and land offers from contractors, and instead reported the attempted corruption to the authority.

This year’s National Construction Day was held under the theme, “People, Quality and Innovation: Building a Legacy,” and brought together contractors, engineers and architects from across the country.