LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Local Government and Rural Development Minister Ben Phiri has ordered smooth relocation of vendors from Wakawaka Market along the M1 at Area 36 to newly built Western Bypass market.
The Minister Phiri made the order after touring the two facilities.
Phiri therefore directed city and district authorities to liaise with the leadership of the two markets to ensure a smooth relocation process.
But despite the order, Wakawaka Market vendors along the M1 have shown stiff resistance to relocate to Bypass market.
M1 Wakawaka Market Chairperson Muloleni Mangolomera argued that the relocation decision is driven by jealousy, alluding to long-standing tensions between rival market leaders and insisted that they will not move.
But Minister Phiri insisted that no individual in Malawi is permitted to own a market.
“Wakawaka Market will be relocated to the Bypass Road “by all means necessary, and in a manner that ensures justice for vendors and both sides of the divide,” insists Phiri.
Concerns have been raised over road safety, poor sanitation, and the high taxes paid by vendors at Wakawaka Market, which is situated on privately owned land near the busy road.
Meanwhile the Bypass Road Market is still under development with the coverage of 1.6 hacters of land.