Zomba City gears up for industrialisation

Zomba City Council acting chief executive officer Mussa Mwale says industrialisation of the old capital is key to improving the socio-economic status of its residents.

He said this on Friday in Zomba when the council in collaboration with Malawi Investment and Trade Centre (Mitc) held a meeting with investors and other small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the city to discuss areas the council should focus on in its drive to industrialisation.

In his presentation, Mwale said the city has the capacity to invest in various industrialisation projects including agriculture.

He said the city has the capacity to set up manufacturing companies to create job opportunities for the residents.

“The dawn of industries in the city will excite many investors within and outside the city as well as beyond the borders to invest in various businesses which could spur income generation as well as uplift the face of the city,” he said.

Mitc executive director of investment promotion and facilitation Joshua Nthakomwa challenged the council to be objective in its quest for industrialisation to attract potential investors.

“The council should create a conducive environment where investors will be able to do their businesses with ease and efficiency,” he said.

On his part, Zomba Market chairperson Innocent Chikhaula acknowledged the industrialisation concept, but said opportunities should not bypass SMEs to established entrepreneurs.

“Let us remember that SMEs are crucial in the economic development of the country, therefore, the city will be accountable for anything that affects its economy if it fails to invest in SMEs accordingly,” he said.