Illovo Managing Director Ronald Ngwira and Homeland Security Minister Peter Mukhito laying the foundation stone
* At Illovo, we see ourselves as more than a business. We are part of the communities in which we operate
* We live here, we work here, and our success is closely linked to the wellbeing of the people around us
By Duncan Mlanjira
Illovo Sugar Malawi is investing MK2 billion towards construction of state-of-the-art Nchalo police station in order to enhance response to security concerns, strengthen investigations and increase police visibility.
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At the groundbreaking ceremony held Tuesday morning, close to the junction towards Illovo’s Nchalo Estate, Managing Director, Ronald Ngwira emphasised that development is often associated with investing into infrastructure such as roads, schools, hospitals, enhancement of businesses and jobs — “but none of these can truly flourish without security”.
However, this is a response towards the serious challenge Illovo’s faces at its Nchalo Estate of rampant theft of its sugarcane and irrigation equipment, which prompted the company to engage Nchalo Police to increase security visibility — on top of Nchalo Estate’s security provided by private security firm, GardaWorld.
Ngwira disclosed that since March 2024, Illovo has been hiring 160 police officers to help to provide security for the Estate’s assets, employees, their families and contractors, whose monthly bill was over K200 million.
Ngwira stressed that the investment was not only for the benefit of Illovo alone but for the whole community, saying: “People need to feel safe in their homes, businesses need to operate in a secure environment, and communities need confidence that law and order will be maintained.
“That is why today is a significant day. At Illovo, we see ourselves as more than a business — we are part of the communities in which we operate. We live here, we work here, and our success is closely linked to the wellbeing of the people around us.”
Illovo has also provided 11 hectares of land for the construction project: “For us, this goes beyond constructing buildings — is about investing in safer communities, enhancing public service delivery and creating the conditions for people and businesses to prosper.
“This project is part of a long-standing partnership between Illovo Sugar Malawi and the Malawi Police Service as over the years, we have worked together on several initiatives and one that stands out is the community policing initiative.
“This programme, amongst others, has demonstrated that the best results are achieved when the police and communities work hand in hand to address challenges, prevent crime and build trust.”
Ngwira also appraised the gathering that Illovo has previously contributed MK50 million towards the development of Ndakwera Police Station, “again a reflection of Illovo’s ongoing commitment to supporting safer communities through enabling the Police to provide security”.
“We do recognise that the Police have limited resources and this is the reason why will always be available to support them. At Illovo we do not compromise on safety and our Safety Ambition is; ‘To Get Everyone Home Safely, Every Day, Everywhere, No Compromises’.
“People sometimes ask why a sugar company invests in projects like this. The answer is simple — strong communities create strong businesses, and strong businesses can help build strong communities.
“We all have a role to play in development, and this is our contribution to ensuring that Nchalo remains a safe and prosperous place for everyone.”
To demonstrate appreciation for the huge investment, the groundbreaking event was graced by Minister of Homeland Security, Peter Mukhito; his deputy Norman Chisale; Inspector General of Malawi Police Service Richard Luhanga; the area’s Member of Parliament, George Kyuma; Paramount Chief Lundu and a high entourage of top ranking police officers.
Ngwira thus acknowledges the presence of both the Minister of Homeland Security and the Deputy — saying this is “a clear indication of the Government’s dedication to enhancing public safety and its recognition that meaningful progress is achieved when the public and private sectors work hand in hand”.
“It also reflects a shared commitment to fostering partnerships that support the development of critical security infrastructure, strengthen community safety, and contribute to creating an environment in which citizens and businesses can thrive.
“I look forward to the day when we return, not to break ground, but to cut the ribbon and celebrate a facility that will stand as a lasting symbol of partnership, progress, and service to the people of Nchalo and beyond.
“Together, we are laying more than a foundation for a building — we are laying a foundation for safer communities, stronger partnerships and a brighter future.”
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