Govt pushes Mombera University, Hora Mountain projects
Government says Mombera University is closer to construction after completion of key paperwork, while plans to develop Hora Mountain as a tourism attraction also gain support.
ombera University is set to become a major catalyst for development in Mzimba, with government confirming that all necessary paperwork has been completed to pave the way for construction of the long-awaited institution.
Second Vice President Enoch Chihana says construction work will commence once the project receives approval from the Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Authority (PPDA).
Chihana says government intends to transform the area surrounding Mombera University into a fully developed university town equipped with essential amenities and infrastructure through a public-private partnership.
Speaking during a visit to Mzimba, Chihana said government will contribute K14 billion towards the project, while the private sector is expected to invest more than K300 billion in the development of the university and associated infrastructure.
He said the investment has the potential to significantly transform the face of Mzimba by creating opportunities in education, business, employment, accommodation, transportation and other sectors.
“All the paperwork has been done and we are only waiting for approval from PPDA so that contractors can move onto the construction site,” Chihana said.
He said the government’s vision extends beyond the establishment of a university, as it also seeks to develop the surrounding area into a vibrant university town capable of attracting further public and private investment.
Chihana also assured people in Mzimba that government will resume construction of the Eswazini-Mzalangwe-Kafukule Road, a project that stalled due to payment-related challenges.
He said government is committed to resolving the outstanding issues to allow construction to resume and ensure the road project is completed.
The Second Vice President further said government will support plans to transform the foot of Hora Mountain into a tourism site, saying the area has significant potential to contribute to the district’s economic development.
According to Chihana, developing Hora Mountain as a tourism destination would help unlock the area’s tourism potential, attract visitors and create business and employment opportunities for local communities.
He said government is committed to supporting development projects that can stimulate economic growth and improve the livelihoods of people in Mzimba.
The planned developments including Mombera University, the university town concept, the Eswazini -Mzalangwe-Kafukule Road project and the Hora Mountain tourism initiative are expected to strengthen Mzimba’s position as an important centre for education, tourism, business and investment in Malawi’s Northern Region.
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