By Jones Gadama
Vendors at the newly opened By-Pass Market were all smiles on Monday as Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Hon. Dr. Ben Malunga Phiri, made an unannounced visit to check on their progress and listen to their concerns firsthand.
Dr. Phiri walked through the various sections of the market, engaging directly with traders to understand how they are settling in and to assess the opportunities and challenges that have emerged since their relocation. His hands-on approach and willingness to interact with everyone on the ground left a strong impression.
The vendors described the Minister as jovial, approachable, and genuinely caring, saying it was encouraging to see a senior government official take time to visit and understand their day-to-day realities.
Many noted that his presence gave them confidence that their voices are being heard at the highest level.
Addressing the traders, Dr. Phiri reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with them to ensure the market runs smoothly and sustainably.
He stressed that measures would be put in place to stop traders from returning to recently demolished illegal trading sites, and assured vendors that essential services and facilities would be provided to create a conducive business environment.
The vendors welcomed the assurance and said they were happy with the Minister’s message. They pledged to follow his advice and to support government’s efforts to keep the market organized and productive.
Dr. Phiri’s visit has been widely praised as a clear demonstration of servant leadership, with traders saying such engagement motivates them to work harder and maintain order at the market.
The By-Pass Market is expected to play a key role in decongesting Lilongwe’s central business district while providing traders with a safer and more structured space to grow their businesses.
