Govt Promise to Improve MDF Infrastructure, Welfare

President Peter Mutharika pose with Army
Officials

Government has assured to improve the welfare of the Malawi Defense Force (MDF) officers as well as their infrastructure.

President Professor Peter Mutharika made the remarks at Kamuzu Barracks home of Second Battalion Malawi Rifles in the Capital City Lilongwe where he was on familiarization tour.

The Malawi leader who said the visit was his opportunity to appreciate newest achievements and challenges experienced by MDF noted that the MDF is facing numerous challenges due to the “prevailing economic conditions”

Then reiterated his government continued support in ensuring the improved welfare of men and women in uniform.

“My government has plans to improve housing and road infrastructure in all Malawi Defense Force establishments in addition to the current projects being implemented”

President Mutharika: Hails army 

The President and also the Commander In chief of the Armed Forces mentioned Changalume Barracks in Zomba as an example where the road project has been completed and that there is ongoing project by Southern Region Water Board connecting water supply to ease water challenges being faced there.

President Mutharika also hailed MDF for the great job which he said has made Malawi proud in many respects here in Malawi and abroad.  He said through peacekeeping missions MDF troops have put Malawian on the map as one of the most disciplined defense force and that their dedication and professionalism has earned medals to some officers and for Malawi as a country.

“Apart from usual defense and security programmes MDF continues to offer civil assistance such as construction bridges and distribution of examination papers as well as election related operations.” He said

“MDF also played a critical role when Malawi faced its worst disaster in the recent floods in the 15 districts of this country.” He said as some of the services that MDF renders in the Malawi while acknowledging also that MDF is greatly contributing to Malawi success stories in managing environment as it is involved in protecting forest reserves such as Dzalanyama and Thuma forest.

Before leaving the Barracks, President Mutharika together with the First Lady handed a K5 million cheque donation to Women Welfare Fund towards the building of the nursery school there and K10 million donation to the Junior Officers Fund which support junior officers with loans.

Mutharika and Commander of MDF

Earlier, Commander of Malawi Defense Force, General Ignacio Maulana hailed the visit describing it as ‘demonstration to commitment of improving the welfare of Malawi troops.’

Maulana also hailed support the MDF gets from government and the general public. He said this has helped MDF to be recognized as a one of the most highly trained and professional military force both within and outside the country.

“I therefore wish to assure you your Excellency that Malawi Defense Force shall continue to perform its tasks in upholding the constitution of Malawi in a unique and resourceful way as it has always done” he said and further promised that MDF shall strive to continue upholding its values that includes high standard of discipline, Military professionalism and patriotism.

He also requested government to support the MDF because it is facing a lot of challenges some of which president Mutharika has seen for himself during inspection tour of the barracks and briefs.