EU FUNDED CROSS BORDER MARKET LAUNCHED
EU FUNDED CROSS BORDER MARKET LAUNCHED
18th March, 2024
The European Union has launched the construction of a cross-border market in Chipata District of Eastern Province.
The initiative is expected significantly foster small-scale cross-border trade between Zambia and Malawi, boost local economies and create jobs.
The EU is investing over ZMW 25 million in this project, which is part of the organisation’s support to economic development and trade facilitation.
Mrs Christiane Haziyo, EU Programme Manager, highlighted the EU cooperation with COMESA, the implementing partner of the project, to address challenges faced by small-scale traders.
The new market will ensure that border infrastructure caters for women, youth and the physically challenged, and it will provide traders with sanitary, safe and appropriate storage space for their goods.
The initiative marks a significant milestone in the Small-Scale Cross Border Trade Initiative (SCBTI), financed primarily through a EUR 15 million grant by the European Union.
With the ongoing EU support, COMESA is planning to extend this development model to the Mchinji border with Malawi and increase cross-border activities at strategic border posts like Mwami/Mchinji.
The project demonstrates the confidence the international community has in the UPND New Dawn Government of President Hakainde Hichilema.
Since assuming office, President Hichilema has prioritised economic diplomacy, promoting the growth of the country’s economy by increasing trade, promoting investments, collaboration on bilateral and multilateral trade agreements.