By Chisomo Phiri

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPos)-Minister of Transport and Public Works Jacob Hara has challenged local architects to adopt resilient and sustainable design principles to drive national transformation.

Speaking at the 42nd Annual General Meeting(EGM ) and Continuing Professional Development Workshop of the Malawi Institute of Architects(MIA) in Mangochi on Wednesday, Hara emphasized the critical role architects play in shaping the future.

Describing architects as ‘masters of the future,’ Hara urged them to design structures that can withstand climatic shocks and support Malawi’s long-term development plan, Malawi 2063.

He stressed that architecture goes beyond creating spaces, it’s about developing designs that are stronger and more resilient.

In his keynote address, Musunka Silungwe from the Zambia Institute of Architects echoed Hara’s sentiments, calling on Malawian architects to adopt a transformative mindset by valuing local resources and talent.

MIA president Khumbo Chirwa reinforced this message, highlighting the importance of visionary architects in designing multipurpose and adaptable structures that align with national development goals.

The AGM was held under the theme ‘Sustainability in construction: The need for flexibility and adaptability.’