Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Ben Phiri has expressed satisfaction with the construction progress of the K6.8 billion Mkondezi Market in Nkhata Bay District.
He said at the current pace, construction works could be completed ahead of its 12-month timeframe.
Phiri said President Peter Mutharika had envisioned the construction of seven modern markets in the Northern Region to boost trade and promote rural development, adding that three markets were already taking shape in Mzuzu, Chitipa and Nkhata Bay.
He said: “Just three months ago, we laid the foundation stone and today we can see a significant structure taking shape. In some cases, foundation stones are laid, but even after three or four years, there is little progress on the ground.
“This contractor is ahead of schedule and is demonstrating quality workmanship. I am impressed that the President’s vision of modern markets is becoming a reality.”
Phiri further said government adopted a performance-based approach to project implementation to ensure contractors deliver within agreed timelines, noting that delays often result in price adjustments and expose projects to weather-related challenges.
| Chisomo Kambandanga
Energyz Construction site agent Daniel Kaunda said in three months they have completed roofing works on the ablution block, waste management area, slaughterhouse and site office.
“For the main market, we have reached ring beam level and we expect to start roofing before December. This is a major milestone for us,” he said.
Kaunda said the project initially faced challenges with water supply, but the issue was resolved with support from the district council.
Nkhata Bay district commissioner David Gondwe said the council will continue conducting regular monitoring visits to ensure the contractor maintains the required standards.
The council is implementing the project under the Transforming Agriculture Through Diversification and Entrepreneurship (Trade) Programme with funding from International Fund for Agriculture Development (Ifad).
