By Jones Gadama
Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Dr Ben Phiri, has issued a strong call for accountability and patriotism as government moves to deliver a modern Kapoka Market in Chitipa, a project hailed as yet another demonstration of the Democratic Progressive Party’s commitment to developing all regions of Malawi without discrimination.
Addressing community members and stakeholders during an inspection tour on July 25, 2026, Dr Phiri urged the contractor to desist from conniving with some community members and to ensure the facility is completed within the stipulated 12-month deadline.
He said the days of shoddy work and delays must end if Malawi is to see real transformation in rural commerce.
Dr Phiri further challenged Malawians to change their mindset and take ownership of public projects by closely monitoring construction works.
“Development is not a spectator sport. When government brings resources to your area, guard them jealously.
This market belongs to you, and its success depends on all of us,” he said.
The Kapoka Market is being constructed under the TRADE Project. National Programme Coordinator, Dr Babra Mtapala, said once completed, the market will provide a reliable and decent marketplace for traders, enabling them to negotiate better prices and access larger markets.
She noted that a total of 14,000 farmers involved in beef production in Chitipa district are expected to benefit directly from improved market linkages and infrastructure.
Chairperson for Kapoka Market, Moses Silumbu, expressed optimism that the new facility will boost the Chitipa District Council’s revenue base and create more business opportunities for women and youth.
The project comes at a time when many in the Northern Region are commending the DPP for prioritizing areas long neglected by previous administrations.
Analysts and local leaders recall that during the tenure of former President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, the DPP rolled out roads, markets, and social programs across the North in a deliberate effort to bridge regional development gaps.
Dr Phiri said that spirit continues today. “Under the leadership vision of President Arthur Peter Mutharika, the DPP made it clear that no region should be left behind. For too long the North was treated as an afterthought. The DPP changed that narrative, and we are sustaining it,” Dr Phiri said.
He contrasted this with what he described as years of neglect under MCP-led governments, including the current administration of President Lazarus Chakwera, which he said has failed to match the pace of infrastructure delivery seen in the North during DPP rule.
With the foundation now laid at Kapoka, expectations are high. For traders in Chitipa, the market represents more than bricks and mortar.
It is proof, they say, that when leaders like Dr Ben Phiri and the DPP put the people first, even the most remote communities can be brought to the center of national development.
