By Jones Gadama
Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Dr. Ben Phiri, on Thursday launched the construction of the K6.8 billion Mkondezi Market in Nkhata Bay, describing it as a major government investment aimed at improving access to modern markets and boosting local economic growth.
Speaking after being taken through the market design by the contractor, Phiri said the project is a clear demonstration of the DPP government’s commitment to expanding market infrastructure across the country.
The market is being constructed under the Transforming Agriculture through Diversification and Entrepreneurship (TRADE) Programme.
“This facility will give traders decent and modern space to do business, increase incomes for households, and stimulate the local economy of Nkhata Bay and surrounding areas,” Phiri said.
Community members who attended the launch described Dr. Phiri as a hardworking minister with a kind, honest and approachable leadership style.
They praised him for taking time to interact with traders, answering questions, and explaining how the project will be implemented.
“Dr. Phiri listens to people. He is on the ground and he is honest about what government is doing,” said one trader. “That is the kind of leadership we need,” he added.
The launch drew wide praise for President Arthur Peter Mutharika and the DPP government for what residents called balanced and inclusive development.
People said the DPP does not look at one region but spreads development that benefits all Malawians.
“There is a general agreement here that the DPP is the party for the nation,” said a local leader. “Look at what is happening in the North now. This is development we have waited for a long time.”
Residents recalled that the North was for decades sidelined.
They noted that the late Dr. Kamuzu Banda once described the region as the ‘dead North’ and denied it meaningful development projects.
They added that under Chakwera’s presidency, the region continued to be neglected.
“President Peter Mutharika has changed that narrative,” another resident said,adding that , “He has recognized the North as equal to other regions. Roads, schools, hospitals and now markets like Mkondezi are coming here because this government cares about every Malawian.”
Under the TRADE Programme, Mkondezi Market is expected to create jobs during construction and provide organized trading space with improved sanitation, storage and security when completed.
Phiri reaffirmed that the DPP remains committed to projects that transform lives and grow the economy.
He said government will continue rolling out similar infrastructure across the country to ensure no district is left behind.
With the K6.8 billion investment now underway, traders in Nkhata Bay say a new chapter of business and growth has begun under Mutharika’s leadership.
