By Steven Godfrey Mkweteza
Richard Makondi, United Transformation Movement (UTM) shadow Member of Parliament for Chilomoni, Kabula, Nancholi, and Manyowe constituency, has expressed concern over the current business operating environment for vendors in Blantyre city.
Makondi believes this situation hinders efforts to improve the lives of vendors and the country’s economic development.
During an inspection tour in some market areas around the city, Makondi noted that the poor business environment has led to many small-scale traders closing their shops, contributing to poverty, joblessness, and crime.
“The truth is many businesses have collapsed due to poor economic fundamentals like high taxes, rentals, and loan interest rates,” he said.
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Makondi added that private sector contribution to economic development is minimal, partly because small-scale traders face challenges accessing public loans due to political affiliation.
Makondi also highlighted the unequal distribution of development activities, with Lilongwe city receiving more focus than Blantyre.
He cited stalled development projects in Blantyre, such as the city car park and shopping mall project.
The shadow MP assured traders that he would work to change the status quo if elected.
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He plans to roll out programs to transform the lives of Blantyre vendors despite prevailing economic challenges.
Makondi questioned the management of daily taxes collected from vendors, citing poor facilities in markets.
The UTM shadow candidate will face competition from other parties, including the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
