
Chanthunya advocacy group raises sanitation concerns at kankao market in Balaka
Published on April 11, 2025 at 11:24 AM by Lisa Bandawe
A local development advocacy has voiced out concerns that Kankao market in Balaka has no toilets or places to throw away rubbish which has made the market dirty as a result many business people have stopped renewing their business licenses and market is not running well.
Chifundo Folokiya, a representative of the advocacy group, made the remarks during a meeting with Balaka District Council officials. The Traditional Authority (T/A) Chanthunya also attended the meeting he shared concerns over poor sanitary condition at the market.
Folokiya described the situation as disappointing, highlighting that despite years of operation the the market still lacks essential infrastructure like toilets and proper waste management areas. He noted that many vendors are opting out of paying for business permits due to unfavorable working environment.
Responding to the concerns, Balaka District Councils Development Planning Officer, Chris Nawata, acknowledge the problem and assured stakeholders that the construction of toilets, waste disposal sites and overall market development has been included in the councils 2025-2026 financial plan.
Meanwhile, Aaron Mtaya, a senior official from CADECOM, a community development organization, commended the Chanthunya advocacy group for their proactive efforts. He said their engagement will contribute positively to development in the area by holding authorities accountable and promote better living standards for local residents