By Chisomo Kambandanga
NKHATABAY-(MANA)-President Lazarus Chakwera has pledged new developments for the people of Tukombo in Nkhata Bay, describing the area as a strategic centre for tourism and agriculture.
Speaking on Tuesday at Tukombo Trading Cetre during a whistle-stop tour in the district, Chakwera reaffirmed his governments commitment to transforming Nkhata Bay into a hub of economic activity.
Chakwera said Tukombo and Nkhata Bay as a whole stand tall as both the centre of tourism and the heartbeat of farming in our country; hence, the need to fast-track development initiatives in the district.
“Nkhata Bay is blessed with natural beauty and fertile land. As Malawi Congress Party (MCP), we are committed to developing this area by adding value to agricultural products and ensuring that visitors who come here can appreciate the full potential of our land and our people,” he said.
Chakwera, therefore, announced plans to establish a cassava and fish processing factory in the area, saying the project will boost the local economy and allow products from Nkhata Bay to reach international markets.
“This factory will uplift our farmers and transform local industries,” he added.
The President also assured people in Tukombo of a planned extension of the piped water project, which is already benefiting areas like Nkhata Bay Boma.
While reflecting on the past five years, Chakwera acknowledged that his administration faced several challenges, including natural disasters, but maintained that they remained resilient.
“Despite the setbacks, we stood firm and delivered what we could. We promise to deliver even more in the years ahead,” he said.
Chakwera concluded his address by urging residents to continue supporting the MCP, introducing his running mate, Engineer Vitumbiko Mumba, whom he described as “energetic, creative and focused, emphasizing that with Mumba everything is within reach.
In his remarks, Mumba expressed his commitment and readiness to serve the people, urging that it’s not time to look back but time to forge ahead with varous development projects that the MCP has initiated.
Traditional Authority Zilakoma praised government for launching development projects aimed at improving livelihoods and infrastructure.
Zilakoma cited the social cash transfer programme, irrigation schemes, relief maize distribution and the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF) as key initiatives making a positive impact in the area.
“For the first time, we have police unit at Tukombo, we have fish landing site and improved health service delivery facilities. These developments are improving lives and contributing to the security and prosperity of our community,” Zilakoma added.
Senior Chief Fukamapiri also commended President Chakwera for choosing a running mate from the Northern Region and assured him that Nkhata Bay will continue to support all government for continued development efforts.
Among other centres, Chakwera is expected to visit today include: Kande Trading Centre, Chintheche Market, Nkhata Bay Boma, Mpamba Trading Centre and Kavuzi Trading Centre at Mzenga.
