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Urbanisation puts pressure on infrastructure—MIE

 

Malawi Institution of Engineers (MIE) has blamed rapid population increase and urbanisation as key issues overshadowing their social and economic contributions to the country.

MIE president David Mzandu in an interview on the sidelines of MIE’s 16th Annual Conference in Mangochi last week said some infrastructure in the country is stressed because there is too much pressure being exerted on it.

He said: “With statistics showing that urbanisation is higher than the overall population growth rate, there is pressure on services particularly in cities.

Malawi is urbanising at a fast rate
Malawi is urbanising at a fast rate

“As such, we see that much as we have made some progress and a number of achievements in the past 52 years of independence, there is still more work to be done.”

Mzandu said MIE is strategising on how it can mobilise itself and work with development stakeholders and government to find solutions to the social and economic challenges affecting the country.

“We are eager to meaningfully participate in the development of the country even if it means just providing professional advice that cannot be challenged or contradicted.

“With concerted, organised and coordinated efforts, we can provide solutions to the challenges facing the country by applying science, mathematics, technology and innovation skills to carry out necessary activities that can provide solutions to the country,” he said.

In a separate interview, Minister of Transport and Public Works Malison Ndau said reflecting on the past Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), it can be concluded that there is still unfinished business and need for a critical look at Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Engineers remain among the key stakeholders of government in transforming the economy. The vast investment funds in roads, water, electricity, communication and other development projects will have to be designed innovative eyes if we are to achieve and progress on SDGs.

As of January this year, the population of Malawi was estimated to be 17.4 million. This is a 3.06 percent increase compared to 16.9 million the year before, according to figures from the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs.

 

 

 

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