Business community in Chitipa has commended government for initiating Malawi Education Reformed Programme (MERP), which has not only improved school infrastructure but also empowered local entrepreneurs by prioritising local suppliers for construction materials.
One of the suppliers who is the beneficiary of the project Lameck Ngomale, a supplier of cement and iron bars, described MERP as a lifeline for small businesses in the district.
“In the past, major construction projects often sourced materials from outside Chitipa, making it difficult for us to grow. But under MERP, we have had the opportunity to supply cement and iron bars for school construction projects. This has boosted our sales and allowed us to expand our business,” he said.
Another entrepreneur, Liness Kanyika, who supplied cement bricks, said that the programme has proven to be a pillar of small businesses.
“MERP has been a great opportunity for my business. By securing contracts to supply cement bricks for new classrooms, I have been able to employ more workers and improve my financial stability. The programme is not just about education; it is also uplifting local businesses,” she said.
In his remarks, David Phiri, a quarry stone supplier, said that the impact of MERP has been equally significant.
He stated that the increased demand for building materials has allowed him to scale up operations.
“Before MERP, our business was struggling with inconsistent sales. But now, with the construction of new schools in Chitipa, we have seen a rise in orders. This has helped us invest in better equipment and create more jobs for the youth in our community,” he said.
Phiri has since urged government to maintain its commitment of supporting local suppliers in future projects.
He believes that by prioritising local businesses, more people in rural areas will benefit from economic growth, fostering self-reliance and long-term development.
“We thank government for ensuring that development projects like MERP benefit not only learners but also local entrepreneurs.
“This is the kind of empowerment we need to grow our businesses and strengthen our communities,” said phiri.
Chitipa’s local business owners remain optimistic that their involvement in government projects will lead to sustained economic transformation in the district.
