Government officials invited to a roundtable discussion aimed at promoting dialogue and peaceful solutions failed to attend the meeting held in Karonga on 9 July 2026, despite receiving formal invitations. 

The meeting, organised by Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) from Karonga, Rumphi, and Mzuzu, focused on the urgent rehabilitation of the M1 Road, particularly the Chiweta–Karonga stretch, which has long been a concern for road users and local communities. 

Among those invited were the Minister of Transport and Public Works, the Chief Executive Officer of the Roads Fund Administration, the Chief Executive Officer of the Roads Authority, and the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Land, Transport and Public Infrastructure. None attended or communicated reasons for their absence. 

CSOs expressed disappointment, stressing that the gathering represented one of the largest coalitions of civil society organisations in Northern Malawi united behind a single cause. 

“Such a broad-based civic movement should not be underestimated, regardless of the political considerations of the public officials concerned,” the organisations cautioned. 

CSOs emphasised that the Karonga–Chiweta section of the M1 Road is a strategic national corridor, serving as Malawi’s main gateway for imports from Tanzania. The road carries essential commodities such as fuel, motor vehicles, and other goods. 

They recalled that during last year’s conflict in Tanzania, disruptions along the route contributed to fuel shortages across the country, underscoring its national economic importance. 

They further highlighted the Songwe Border’s revenue contribution, estimating that about 100 light vehicles and 300 trucks and fuel tankers cross daily, generating more than MK37 billion per month. 

However, they warned that the deteriorating condition of the road continues to have far-reaching consequences, including prolonged travel times, increased accidents, delays in emergency medical referrals, rising vehicle maintenance costs, and a higher cost of living driven by transport expenses. 

“The continued deterioration of the road reflects the long-standing neglect of Karonga District,” the CSOs stated. 

Despite their concerns, the organisations acknowledged recent government progress, including procurement notices related to the rehabilitation of the Karonga–Chiweta section of the M1 Road. They expressed hope that these developments will translate into tangible action and timely completion of the long-awaited project.