Farmers in Kasiya, Lilongwe District have expressed hope that the Malembo Rural Growth Centre will boost produce trade in the area.
They said this on Friday two days after International Fund for Agricultural Development (Ifad) handed over the K3.65 billion facility to Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.
“Farmers had nowhere to sell their produce. As a result, vendors used to take advantage to buy the produce at low prices,” said Joseph Mullewa, a farmer.
Malembo Market Committee chairperson Pemba Moyo Chimanda welcomed the development, saying it will improve trading conditions, attract more customers and create new economic opportunities for the community.
Speaking during the handover on Wednesday, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Ben Phiri said the centre was expected to strengthen Malawi’s agricultural economy by reducing transportation costs, improving access to markets and increasing incomes for both farmers and traders.
“We commend Transforming Agriculture through Diversification and Entrepreneurship (Trade) programme for this important investment. This facility is key to transitioning Malawi from a largely agro-based economy to a more agro-industrial system that adds value to production,” he said.
The minister emphasised that the new market will provide a conducive and organised trading environment, addressing long-standing challenges faced by vendors.
“As government, we want our traders to operate in improved conditions that support business growth throughout the year,” said Phiri.
Constructed under Trade Programme, the Malembo Rural Growth Centre is a comprehensive facility designed to support agribusiness and value chain development.
Ifad country director Bernadette Mukonyora emphasised the importance of proper management and maintenance of the facility.
“The centre is not just a market, but a platform for empowerment. It will enable smallholder farmers, especially women and youths, to engage in business-oriented production and build resilient livelihoods,” she said.
Trade constructed the market with funding from Ifad and Opec Fund for International Development.
