As part of the livelihood restoration the Nacala Phase V project, which is being funded by the African Development Bank; the European Union (EU) and the Malawi Government is set to construct two state-of-the-art Markets in the densely populated area of Chiendausiku, located along the Nsipe-Liwonde road and town of Ntcheu. The markets which will accommodate approximately, 300 vendors that are trading along the road within the vicinity.
This is part of clearing the road to improve traffic, safety of the road users as well as maintain the roads durability. Additionally, this aims to help communities regain or improve their economic security and resilience after disturbances. Through this, the project hopes to not only create a safer place where these communities/traders can trade freely but also supporting their businesses by creating better access to markets for their products.
Technical Assistant for the Project, Wilson Sumani said the market designs will be made in such a way that vendors would be restricted to conducting their businesses away from the main roads to avoid road accidents as well as control traffic.
“The primary goal is safety of both the vendors and the road users, that is why the vendors will be restricted from trading anywhere near the road. Road rehabilitation brings in economic transformation and for small businesses this is a boost not only to their businesses but also their livelihood status. With the increased traffic likely to happen once rehabilitation is completed, comes the need for vendors to trade in designated places,” said Sumani.
Additionally, the Project plans on conducting road safety sensitization engagement meetings with the communities along the stretch. This part of the activity will be done during and after the road has been rehabilitated. The objective is to reduce road accidents, promote safer behaviors, and saving lives, ultimately leading to a more secure and efficient transportation system