By Emily M'mangisa

Zomba, April 18, Mana: Government of Malawi intends to award Hualong Construction PVT Limited a K74 billion contract to construct Chitedze multi-complex security prison in Lilongwe.

Minister of Homeland Security, Ezekiel Ching'oma confirmed the development to Malawi News Agency (Mana) in an interview, saying, “As soon as the contractor signs the contract, we expect them to be on site.”

National Prison Service spokesperson Charles Meke said the new facility will reduce congestion in the country's prisons.

He said reformation will be easier as the new prison will be equipped with the necessary equipment for vocational and other skills meant to reform inmates.

Center for Human Rights Education and Advice (CHREAA), a non-governmental organization that fights for the rights of the underprivileged, welcomed the development.

CHREAA Executive Director, Victor Mhango, hoped the country would have an ideal correctional facility.

“We have to get away from mere punishing of prisoners to provision of corrective measures to transform citizens,” he added.

The Chitedze multi complex security prison will consist of a multi-complex male maximum security complex, a multi-complex female maximum security complex, administrative offices, courtyard/semi-public car parking, among others.

The notice to award the contract was placed in newspapers on April 7, 2025.