Zomba City Council has commenced rehabilitation works on the damaged Mpondabwino Bridge across the Likangala River, with completion expected on 30th March 2027.
The Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Archangel Bakolo, has disclosed to Chanco Community Radio that the site was handed over to Mungo Civil Engineering mid-September 2026.
Bakolo said the works have started well and that the K1 billion contract would be paid according to the work completed and certified by an independent consultant.
“The works have commenced pretty well, and we expect the contractor to complete the project by 30th March 2027. The contract is valued at K1 billion, but payment will depend on the work completed and certified by an independent consultant,” said Bakolo.
In August this year, the rehabilitation project attracted debate over its cost with Zomba City South Member of Parliament, James Mpunga, questioning the proposed K1 billion budget considering that the bridge was initially constructed for K300 million in 2021.
The bridge was closed on 29th December 2025 to pave the way for repairs but some motorists were still using it, raising concerns about the safety of road users.
