By Chisomo Phiri
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Minister of Justice Titus Mvalo has emphasized the need for more lawyers with specialized training in legislative drafting to drive law reforms and create laws that tackle the country’s challenges.
Speaking at the launch of a two-week legislative drafting training program for government lawyers in Lilongwe on Tuesday, Mvalo noted that the Ministry of Justice currently has only eight legislative drafters, despite requiring at least 25.
He said his ministry faces difficulties in retaining staff due to brain drain, as trained personnel seek better opportunities elsewhere.
The minister praised the Chandler Institute for Justice(CIJ) for organizing the training, which aims to enhance the skills of lawyers in legislative drafting.
“This initiative will contribute to the development of laws that address pressing issues such as corruption, improve service delivery, and empower communities,” said Mvalo.
He stressed the significance of well-crafted laws, highlighting their role in protecting the vulnerable, holding those in power accountable, and transforming policy aspirations into tangible progress.
“Conversely, poorly drafted legislation can hinder development, complicate judicial interpretation, and erode public trust,” the minister added.
On his part, Executive Director of the CIJ,Ron Chari,reiterated the organization’s commitment to supporting Malawi’s legal reform efforts and building capacity for effective law-making.
Chari observed that many African laws are outdated, failing to address the continent’s current realities and development aspirations.
CIJ was established in Cape Town, South Africa in 2024.
The institute supports leaders, lawmakers, and legislative bodies across Africa through law reform advisory services, specialized legal training, development of model laws and legal knowledge products that promote good governance, economic development, and social mobility.