Malawi Water and Sanitation Project–1 (MWSP-1) Manager, Stainley Bakolo, has announced that major physical works under the project are scheduled to begin in February 2026.

He made the announcement during a site visit conducted as part of the 6th Project Implementation Support Mission, which brought together officials from the World Bank, Blantyre Water Board (BWB), Blantyre City Council (BCC) and the Government of Malawi to review progress and outline the next steps.

Bakolo explained that the design phase is nearing completion and that major procurements required for the commencement of physical works are at advanced stages. He also noted that several minor interventions under the project, including the construction of public sanitation facilities and the construction and rehabilitation of smart water kiosks that were frontloaded as part of the cholera response, are now nearing completion.

Remarking during a site visit at Nakazimu Hill, where a new water tank for Machinjiri will be constructed, BWB Chief Executive Officer Dr. Robert T. Hanjahanja highlighted that one of the major upcoming works is the construction of four water tanks in Machinjiri, Chilomoni, Chichiri and Nyambadwe to address water challenges in these areas.

World Bank Senior Water and Sanitation Specialist and Task Team Leader, Ivaylo Kolev, commended officials from the Government, BWB and BCC for their commitment and dedication to the project, and encouraged continued collaboration as the work progresses.