By Shaffie A Mtambo
Malawians are struggling with the rising cost of living as sugar prices continue to skyrocket. A packet of sugar that costs between K4,500 and K5,000 in urban areas like Boma is selling for as much as K6,000 to K6,500 in remote areas like Dzaone and Mayaka in Zomba District.
The steep price increase has sparked public outcry, with many blaming the government for failing to manage the economy effectively.
“Things are getting worse each day. We can’t even afford basic items anymore,” said Jacob Luscious, a market vendor in Dzaone.
Critics argue that the government’s response to the economic crisis has been inadequate, with officials attributing the situation to external factors like Cyclone Freddy, the COVID-19 pandemic, and global market fluctuations.
However, governance experts are urging the government to take responsibility for its performance.
“The current situation is not entirely of our making,” said Moses Kunkhuyu, the government spokesperson.
However, UTM President Dalitso Kabambe countered, “It has been nearly five years since the Tonse Alliance government came to power. They can’t keep pointing fingers at the past. Malawians need results, not excuses.”
The rising cost of living has left many Malawians feeling frustrated and disillusioned.
“The Canaan we were promised is nowhere in sight,” said Mr Banda “Instead, we are being pushed deeper into poverty.”
Some concerned citizens have accused companies distributing sugar from Illovo of hiding the commodity in their warehouses, leading to scarcity and price hikes.
