Residents of Chikwawa have welcomed the rehabilitation of a small and medium enterprise factory that has remained non-operational for more than eight years, expressing hope that it will create jobs and improve their livelihoods.
The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Corporation (SMEDCO) has begun maintenance works on the facility as part of efforts to revive local industries and unlock economic opportunities in the district.
SMEDCO Chief Executive Officer Kondwani Kachamba Ngwira said restoring the factory to operation will help stimulate economic growth, create employment and contribute to lowering the prices of locally produced goods.
Kachamba added that SMEDCO plans to rehabilitate three factories in Chikwawa, located in Nchalo and Bangula, to support small and medium enterprises and promote value addition to agricultural produce.
Community members say the development will not only reduce unemployment but also provide farmers and entrepreneurs with easier access to processing facilities closer to their areas of production.
