Business operators at Nayuchi Border in Machinga District are concerned about the delayed construction of the 45-kilometre Nsanama–Nayuchi Border Road.
The traders say the delay is stifling trade and economic growth in the business hotspot along the border with Mozambique.
The project stalled shortly after works commenced last year, with only 10 kilometres tarmacked.
Nayuchi Vendors chairperson Devison Mwansisi asked for the resumption of the works during UTM Party president Dalitso Kabambe’s whistle-stop tour in Machinga on Wednesday.
He stated: “It’s disappointing that the government appears to have lost interest in the project despite its potential to boost our ailing economy through cross-border trade.
“Poverty is worsening and blossoming businesses are collapsing due to poor roads and the weakening local currency.”
Kabambe promised to prioritise the completion of the road if he wins the presidential vote in the September 16 General Election.
He said underdevelopment and hunger have made life unbearable for many people in the south-eastern border district.
The former Reserve Bank of Malawi governor promised to modernise the rugged roads, including the hugely potholed Liwonde–Zomba Road, Nsanama–Nayuchi Road and the Nsanama-Ngokwe Road.
Kabambe asked Malawians to vote for UTM candidates for economic recovery and revival of ailing sectors.
“If voted into power, the UTM government will invest K500 billion in agriculture, mining and factories every financial year. Each council will be receiving K100 billion for developmental operations annually,” he pledged.
Kabambe’s adviser Patricia Kaliati said UTM is the only party with practical solutions to the country’s economic woes.