Illovo hands over police unit, 3 vehicles

Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc in partnership with GardaWorld and Unitrans last week handed over an office block and three vehicles valued at K120 million to Ngabu Police Unit in Chikwawa.

Speaking during the ceremony, Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc head of legal and stakeholder engagement Maureen Kachingwe said the gesture demonstrates the company’s commitment to building a thriving community.

She said: “Theft has been a serious concern for both the Illovo Nchalo operations and the wider Nchalo-Ngabu community itself.

“The community has been a victim of crimes such as theft of domestic animals and crops while Illovo has had its sugar cane and agriculture equipment stolen, among others. Our community cannot thrive in an environment of such insecurity.”

Kachingwe said they committed to assist the police with vehicles to improve their mobility challenges as they combat crime.

Inspector General of Police George Kainja said the donation will improve efficiency in carrying out police operations.

“We will make sure that these vehicles are used for the intended purpose and we ask members of the community to report abuse and misuse,” he said.

In her remarks, Chikwawa Mkombezi legislator Abida Mia, who is also Deputy Minister of Lands, said the donation has come at the right time. “The initiative will certainly lessen the gap of need that has been outstanding for a long time. Public institutions such as police units deserve a better outlook that instils a sense of pride and confidence,” she said.