Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Dr Ben Malunga Phiri has expressed satisfaction with the progress and quality of a modern market under construction near Devil Street in Lilongwe, saying the project is on course for completion within the agreed timelines.
Dr Phiri made the remarks on Saturday when he inspected the Area 1 market, accompanied by Lilongwe Bwaila Constituency Member of Parliament Precious Kabambe.
He said he was impressed with the quality of work and progress made so far, stressing that contractors would not be granted extensions or additional time beyond the agreed completion periods.
The minister said he was looking forward to the completion of all the markets so that farmers and vendors could start benefiting from the facilities.
“I can’t wait for all markets to be finalised so that people can start benefiting,” said Phiri.
The Area 1 market is one of seven modern markets being constructed across the country under the TRADE Programme, with funding from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
The markets are expected to provide farmers with reliable trading spaces where they can sell their produce at fair prices, while vendors will have access to clean, safe and organised business environments.
The development is also expected to improve trading conditions for vendors who have for years operated in congested and unsafe surroundings, while creating opportunities for them to attract more customers and grow their incomes.
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