28/04/2026
Today, Hon. Jappie Mhango, MP, Malawi’s Minister of Transport and Public Works toured the ongoing construction works at Thuchila Bridge along the M004 Road in Mulanje District.
The visit provided an opportunity to appreciate progress on this critical infrastructure project, which is set to replace the existing single-lane temporary bailey bridge with a modern, durable reinforced concrete structure.
The visit provided an opportunity to appreciate progress on this critical infrastructure project, which is set to replace the current single-lane crossing (after the other lane was washed away by Cyclone Freddy) with a modern, durable reinforced concrete structure.
Speaking during the tour, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress made and reassured the public that the project is nearing completion:
“We understand the challenges people have faced with the current bridge, but I want to assure Malawians that the long wait will soon be over. This bridge is now scheduled to open in July, and it will significantly improve connectivity and safety in this area.”
The Thuchila Bridge project has now reached 56% physical progress, with works gaining momentum following the end of the rainy season. Key components such as substructure works and several bridge elements have already been completed.
In an interview with journalists, Engineer Flora Hauya, Director of Maintenance at Roads Authority, highlighted the impact of earlier challenges and the current pace of works:
“The project experienced delays mainly due to heavy rains and rising costs, leading to a revision of the contract sum to MWK 8.93 billion from MWK 7.8 billion. However, now that the rains are over, works have picked up significantly, and we are confident of meeting the revised completion date of 24 July 2026.”
The First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Member of Parliament for Mulanje Bale Constituency said it was encouraging to see the progress being made on the bridge.
He noted that with only a single lane available, crossing the bridge has been extremely challenging.
“With just one lane on this bridge, crossing is a nightmare, particularly on Saturdays when it’s market day at Nkando. It can take hours to get across. The area gets heavily congested, yet this remains our shortest route to Blantyre.”
Once completed, the new 141.65-metre-long bridge will feature a two-lane carriageway, pedestrian walkways, and improved road approaches, enhancing mobility between Blantyre and Mulanje while reducing travel time and vehicle operating costs.
