Development of Border Markets and Bus Terminals Under Public Private Partnership Arrangements

Representatives from SATCP, Ministry of Local Government, District Commissioners and City CEOs today held a meeting discussing development of border markets and bus terminals under public private partnership arrangements.

The Public Private Partnership Commission is receiving funding from SATCP to conduct feasibility studies for the projects.

Speaking at the opening of the event, PS for National Unity Dr.
Elizabeth Chindevu observed that the development of modern border markets through the project will bring immense benefits to the Malawi economy. The markets will provide organized, well-equipped spaces for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to thrive. They will facilitate the safe and efficient movement of goods across Malawi’s borders, reduce transaction costs, and improve access to regional and international markets. At district level this means fostering an environment where local traders can prosper.

Alongside the border markets, the initiative will also focus on improving bus terminals across the country. The planned bus terminals will provide modern, efficient, and safe spaces for travelers and traders alike. It is hoped that the terminals will connect seamlessly with the border markets, ensuring that goods can move smoothly from production areas to market hubs and across our borders.

The Southern Africa Trade and Connectivity Project (SATCP) is a 6-year World Bank funded project under the Ministry of Transport and Public Works. The project is running from 1st July 2021 to 30th June 2027. The project development objective is to support Malawi and Mozambique in increasing regional trade coordination, reducing trade costs and time, developing regional value chains, and improving access to infrastructure.