30/04/2026
“True leadership is not just about words, but about action that protects and uplifts the community.”
The Pakistan Community in Malawi has pledged to help Lilongwe City Council address its critical shortage of functional fire engines, following public outcry after the Council failed to respond to house fires in Area 43 and Chilinde this week.
The city’s fire department could not deploy a truck to either incident due to mechanical breakdowns affecting the entire fleet, a challenge the council has been battling for months.
Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Hon. Dr. Ben Phiri, MP, on Wednesday in Lilongwe commended the community for its patriotism and timely intervention.
“The spirit shown by the Pakistan community reflects the Malawi we are building, where everyone takes responsibility,” Phiri said.
He said Government is ready to provide the necessary support and make sure Lilongwe city’s fire services are brought up to standards that are pleasing to the people.
The Minister added that the Ministry is already engaging partners to procure new fire engines, with additional units purchased in Japan set to be shipped soon. He stressed, however, that immediate repairs to the existing fleet remain urgent.
Speaking during a courtesy call to the Ministry, Chairperson of the Pakistan Community in Malawi, Mr. Rauf Chadary, said the community could not sit back while lives and property remain at risk.
“We have worked with the City before to maintain roads and service Council vehicles. Lilongwe is our home too,” Chadary said.
“If the City is struggling with fire engines, we are ready to support and get them back on the road.”
Lilongwe City Council currently has five fire engines on its books, all of which are grounded.
The Council is serving a population of over 1.2 million with equipment meant for a much smaller city.
