K2bn Nchalo police station project takes off

A K2 billion project to construct a new police station in Nchalo, Chikwawa, has been launched, with authorities saying the facility will help close security gaps in the Lower Shire.

Illovo Sugar Malawi is funding the construction after providing 11 hectares of land for the project, according to its managing director Ronald Ngwira.

Ngwira said the company will fund the construction of the office block as part of its support towards policing in communities surrounding its operations.

The development comes as security concerns, including crime and recent mob justice incidents in the Lower Shire, remain a concern for residents and businesses.

Homeland Security Minister Peter Mukhito said the station would bring police services closer to residents and improve response, investigations and police visibility.

Nchalo Police plan

“We must also recognise that criminals exploit gaps, weak response and poor coordination. Our responsibility is to close those gaps,” Mukhito said.

Ngwira said Illovo has been spending about K200 million a month on security and has, since March 2024, hired 160 police officers to protect its assets, employees, their families and contractors.

He said the company has also previously contributed K50 million towards the development of Ndakwera Police Station and supported community policing initiatives.

Mukhito urged residents to protect Illovo property and report theft and vandalism, saying damage to the company’s assets could affect jobs, business opportunities and community development.

“When company property is stolen or destroyed, it is not only Illovo that loses. The community also loses opportunities for jobs, business, social investment and development,” he said.

The minister also urged residents to report crime and reject mob justice, warning that communities cannot fight crime by breaking the law.

“We cannot strengthen the law by breaking it. Justice must come through the law, not through violence,” Mukhito said.

He said the impact of the new station should ultimately be measured through faster police response, better investigations, reduced crime and increased public confidence in law enforcement.