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Malawi has embarked on intensi f ying efforts to manage rapid urbanisation through a comprehensive national urban policy and local initiatives aimed at sustainable development and disaster resilience. Chief Secretary to the Government Justin Saidi, speaking in Lilongwe on Tuesday during the opening of the Fourth Session of Malawi Urban Forum, highlighted some challenges, noting that almost 20 percent of Malawians now reside in urban centres, often in substandard housing with insufficient space. He said the government remains committed to rural support, emphasising that community-led planning and amenities are vital for balanced national development. Sa id Sa idi : “The re is a need for coordinated efforts among stakeholders to ensure urban residents live well, find employment and do not overwhelm city infrastructure. “Government has made it a direction that it will support people in rural areas and it will be upon people within the areas to plan for themselves and be able to have amenities and live happily. Decentralisation will help Government contain urbanisation.” Lilongwe City Council chief executive officer Macloud Kadammanja said the council is experiencing unprecedented urban migration, with residents settling in informal settlements or seeking land for business and housing. He said the city’s approach includes strategic planning and infrastructure development. Said Kadammanja: “We have created Area 27 for urgent housing needs and are collaborating with the Ministry of Lands on Magwero Industrial Area which extends from Kanengo to Biwi to foster serious business activities. The council is also encouraging residents to develop land collectively, mirroring practices in developed nations, to optimise land use amid limited space.” Ministry of Local Government’s Department of Urban Development director Mercy Dube said they are working closely with local councils and development partners like Habitat for Humanity in implementing the national urban policy. Malawi’s 2019 National Urban Policy, validated during the 2018 Malawi Urban Forum, provides a framework for sustainable urban growth.
