|
The People’s Progressive Movement (PPM) has asked government to prioritise the Nacala Development Corridor, saying a fully functioning facility will save Malawi millions of dollars in external transport costs.
PPM deputy president Mark Katsonga Phiri, responding to President Bingu wa Mutharika’s budget speech on Monday, said considering that the Shire-Zambezi Waterway project is estimated to cost billions of dollars, it was wise to upgrade already existing routes.
“The Nacala Corridor remains the least cost external transport route and must, therefore, be given priority. Upgrading the port facilities and repairing the railway line are the most pressing issues. A fully functioning Nacala Corridor could save Malawi tens of millions of dollars in external transport costs,” said Katsonga Phiri.
On rural development centres, Katsonga Phiri welcomed the idea, especially that the programme is expected to start in the remotest areas, but said there was need to have an in-depth analysis to ensure success.
Commenting on governance, Katsonga Phiri, who is also MP for Neno South, said the increasing cabinet size is a great concern to many Malawians considering the country’s meagre resources.
The MP also called for political reconciliation and reiterated the need for parliamentarians to debate issues constructively and in the national interest.
|
