Communities Around Chididi Allege Being Sidelined from Developmental Projects

Malawi-Residents of communities around Chididi in the area of Senior Chief Malemia in Nsanje are accusing authorities of sidelining them from developmental projects despite being independent for 57 years, writes Cornelius Lupenga.

The accusations come after authorities failed to construct a bridge at Mwanalundu stream to join Chididi area to the district headquarters, making it difficult for locals to travel freely.

According to a resident named Alefa Theniford, the road from Chididi Turn Off to Chididi Mission is damaged at Mwanalundu stream, and people are forced to improvise a bridge that is not easily accessible by motor vehicles.

Shadrick Goba agreed with Theniford, adding that it is unfortunate and pathetic that Chididi remains undeveloped despite the area's potential to supply different fruits to Nsanje Boma and neighbouring districts.

Goba recounted an incident where an ambulance carrying a corpse was unable to deliver it to Thepheya village due to a 5-meter deep gorge on the bridge.

He expressed concern that locals had to mobilize themselves to carry the body on a stretcher to Thepheya village.

Parliamentarian for Nsanje South West, Euritta Ntiza Valeta, confirmed the situation, stating that the road network to the area has been in bad condition for a long time.

She revealed that the Chididi Turn Off to Chididi Mission road is under the National Road Authority's jurisdiction, and the council cannot take charge of it.

There has been no immediate comment from the National Roads Authority.