By Burnett Munthali
In a lively whistle-stop tour at Area 23 Market in Lilongwe, President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera took time to engage with traders and community members, highlighting his commitment to addressing the needs of the people and ensuring economic progress at the grassroots level.
The visit, which saw a large turnout from market vendors and local residents, allowed the President to listen to the challenges facing the traders, including issues related to market access, taxation, and economic empowerment. During the stop, President Chakwera emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to create a conducive environment for small businesses to thrive.
As he toured the market, the President interacted with vendors, offering words of encouragement and solidarity, as well as discussing ways to improve local economies through increased support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). His presence in the market was seen as an opportunity to directly hear from the people and reassure them of his administration’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of Malawians.
The whistle-stop also served as a platform for President Chakwera to reiterate his administration’s priorities, including job creation, infrastructure development, and enhancing access to essential services. The President urged the traders to stay resilient and assured them that the government is working tirelessly to address the concerns raised by the business community.
The interaction was marked by lively exchanges between the President and the local traders, with many expressing their hopes for better conditions and greater support for their businesses. President Chakwera’s visit to Area 23 Market highlighted the importance of fostering communication between the government and the people, particularly those in informal sectors that are vital to Malawi’s economy.
As the whistle-stop tour concluded, President Chakwera expressed his appreciation for the warm reception and promised to continue working towards policies that promote economic growth, fair opportunities, and empowerment for all citizens, particularly small-scale traders who are the backbone of Malawi’s economy.
