Phase one of the construction of a modern market in Mungwi District in Northern Province is almost complete.
The project, which was funded by government through the Ministry of Local Government at a cost of K10.5 million, is standing at 95 percent complete.
Mungwi Town Council Director of Engineering Services, Chupa Chitala, said all the major works have been done, and the only outstanding works under phase one is the connection of the market to the national electricity grid.
Mr. Chitala said the facility will accommodate over 150 marketeers from the main market stands and several other people who will operate restaurants and other shops.
He said all the shops and the stands are ready for commissioning and occupation.
Mr. Chitala said this when officials from the Mungwi Town Council led Northern Province Permanent Secretary Bernard Mpundu in checking the market in Mungwi.
And Mr. Mpundu has praised government for completing the market, which had stalled for over 12 years.
He said this shows the government’s commitment to fulfilling its promises and is walking the talk.
The permanent secretary said he expects people to shift in the market and trade in a conducive environment once it is opened.
Mr. Mpundu has further challenged the local authority to maintain the market by ensuring that there is a constant supply of water and electricity is provided.
He has also advised people who will be trading in the market to keep it clean at all times.
And Mungwi District Commissioner Muma Musonda has encouraged traders in the district to secure space in the market.
He advised the local people against shunning the market, stating that many people outside Mungwi are expressing interest in trading at the market.
The district commissioner has further thanked the government for facilitating the completion of the market after it stalked for years.
Geoffrey Phiri
ZANIS