By Burnett Munthali_
The Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Ben Phiri, has officially opened Malembo Market in Lilongwe, a state-of-the-art facility worth K3.6 billion.
The market has been constructed with funding from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (Ifad).
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Phiri said the market will ease challenges faced by farmers who previously lacked a reliable nearby place to sell their produce.
The minister noted that the market’s opening is a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to improve the country’s agricultural sector.
“With the coming of this modern market, we are empowering farmers to continue working hard because they will now reduce transportation costs,” Phiri said.
He added that the market will have a positive impact on the local economy, creating new opportunities for traders and farmers alike.
Phiri also commended traders in Malembo for accepting temporary relocation during construction, noting that resistance to change often delays development.
He praised the traders for their patience and cooperation, saying it had contributed to the successful completion of the project.
Ifad country director Bernadette Mukonyora said the facility is expected to boost agricultural production and improve supply chains, contributing to economic growth.
She noted that the market’s construction is part of Ifad’s broader efforts to support Malawi’s agricultural sector and improve the livelihoods of rural communities.
Mukonyora also praised Sico Holdings for delivering quality infrastructure, saying it was a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence.
She added that Ifad was proud to partner with the Malawian government to support projects that benefit the country’s most vulnerable populations.
The market has a capacity of 80 shops and is expected to benefit about 14,000 people. It features modern facilities, including sanitation blocks, storage facilities, and parking spaces.
The market is expected to provide a reliable platform for farmers to sell their produce, increasing their incomes and improving their livelihoods.
The opening of Malembo Market is a significant development for Lilongwe’s agricultural sector, and it is expected to have a ripple effect on the local economy.
As the country continues to grapple with challenges related to food security, projects like this offer hope for a brighter future.
