Youth and Society (YAS), through its Zatikwana Anti-Corruption Campaign, has raised concerns about the quality of work on bridges constructed under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in the area of Traditional Authority Mwambo in Zomba.

The concerns were raised following an inspection tour of four bridges, which revealed areas of poor workmanship, including the use of bricks and timber that may soon require replacement. Some projects have even stalled for up to four years.

Zatikwana Campaign champion for Zomba District, Fabiano Black Junior, described the projects as sub-standard.

“After inspecting Mbiri, Kokanguwo, Namisisi, and Thabwani bridges, we have noted that they are of poor quality and we are worried that there might be issues of misuse of project funds,” said Black.

He added that the grouping will engage all duty bearers, including the Member of Parliament, to map a way forward on the concerns.

Zomba District Council Youth chairperson, Sanudi Mussa, expressed concerns about the lack of accountability in the utilization of CDF funds.

“There is much secrecy surrounding how CDF is managed. Community members do not know how it is run,” Mussa said.

The Zatikwana Anti-Corruption Campaign, funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aims to empower the youth to actively fight corruption in their communities.