Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Ben Phiri has commissioned the construction of a new market facility at Limbe Produce Main Market in Blantyre.
The project is expected to boost trade, improve livelihoods and support the country’s import substitution agenda.
Speaking at the site, Phiri said the market forms part of the Trade Programme, which seeks to increase production, promote value addition and reduce reliance on imported goods to help conserve foreign exchange.
He said the project is in line with President Professor Peter Mutharika’s vision of modernising markets and improving the welfare of Malawians.
He noted that due to growing urban population as a result of economic migration and limited land, the new market will be constructed as a multi-storey facility to maximise available space.
The minister urged contractor Blithe Construction Limited to deliver quality work and avoid substandard construction.
He also encouraged the company to employ local people to create jobs and empower surrounding communities.
Chairperson of Limbe Produce Main Market, Noel Fanisako, welcomed the project but appealed to government to facilitate access to MEDEF loans for traders.
He also called for the renovation of the existing market to accommodate the growing number of traders.
Blantyre City Council Chief Executive Officer Costly Chanza said Limbe was selected because it is one of Malawi’s busiest trading centres, attracting agricultural produce from several districts, including Nkhata Bay.
He said the modern market will include facilities such as cold storage to support the trading of perishable products, including milk.
The Limbe Produce Main Market is one of seven markets being constructed in 11 districts under the Trade Programme implemented by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.
The project is being undertaken by Blithe Construction Limited and is expected to be completed within 24 months.
It will also support the Trade Programme’s 2026/27 drive to promote dairy production in the Southern Region.
By Arthur Chokhotho
