30km journey to justice: Nankumba waits for a court

Every trip to seek justice begins with a long and costly journey for residents of Traditional Authority Nankumba in Mangochi West, where communities travel more than 30 kilometres to Monkey Bay or Kasinje to access court services.

The long distance has made access to justice difficult for many residents, with some communities having to spend more time and resources whenever they need court services.

The concern was raised in Parliament by Mangochi West Member of Parliament Reuben Kanyama, who asked Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Charles Mhango to explain the factors considered when establishing a magistrate’s court in an area.

Kanyama told the House that Nankumba headquarters previously had a court during the Kamuzu era, but the facility is no longer available, leaving residents from Traditional Authority Nankumba and surrounding areas without a nearby court.

Responding to the concern, Mhango said distance from existing courts is among the key factors considered when determining areas that qualify for the establishment of magistrate’s courts.

“The distance which they are informing this ministry and the August House, more than 30 kilometres for people to reach the next court, is not acceptable,” Mhango said.

The minister added that people from Nankumba and surrounding areas qualify for the construction and development of a magistrate’s court, giving hope to communities that have struggled to access justice due to distance.

Mhango said he has tasked the Chief Registrar of the Judiciary to compile a nationwide assessment showing the location of local courts, magistrates’ courts and High Courts to establish how far Malawians travel to access justice.

He said the information will guide government in identifying areas requiring new courts, engaging stakeholders and mobilising resources for court infrastructure development.

The minister further advised the people of Mangochi West to prepare and submit a project proposal through their district council, which will then be forwarded to the Judiciary for consideration.