Veep Usi walks with people of Ntandire ghetto in Lilongwe
Vice President of the Republic of Malawi, Right Honorable Dr. Michael Usi, visited Ntandire Market in Lilongwe on Tuesday as he continues to engange with small scale businesses and vendors to witness their businesses firsthand and discuss the challenges they face in their daily operations.
After engaging with the vendors and community members, the Vice President expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome, affectionately referring to Ntandire as “his ghetto.” He emphasized that his vice presidency is rooted in the desire to be a blessing to the people, stating that it is the reason he continually seeks to sit down with ordinary Malawians, listen to their concerns, and work together on solutions.
“Let us thank God that we are all here today,” Dr. Usi remarked. “Every person born on this earth has a purpose, and we must strive to be a blessing to others. All the privileges that come with the office of the Vice Presidency mean nothing if I am not using them to bless people like you. In the same way, your MP, George Zulu, is nothing if he is not a blessing to you.”
The Vice President further highlighted his ongoing advocacy for the ‘no-collateral loans’ offered by the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF). He stressed that even those unable to provide collateral should still have access to loans, allowing them to start or expand their businesses and uplift their livelihoods.
He also made a strong appeal for fairness in loan distribution, insisting that loans should be available to everyone, regardless of political affiliation, religion, or any other factor. “At the end of the day, we are all Malawians,” he stated. Dr. Usi urged those who have received NEEF loans to repay them promptly so others may benefit, reminding the community that the fund is designed to be revolving.
“When forming groups to apply for NEEF loans, ensure you know each other well,” the Vice President advised. “Don’t be discouraged by rumors suggesting the loans won’t be distributed. Many people across the country are waiting, and in some areas, the loans have already been given out.”
MP George Zulu, in his remarks, expressed his gratitude for the Vice President’s visit, noting that this was the first time a sitting Vice President had ever visited Ntandire Market and personally engaged with the people. Zulu also praised the development initiatives in his constituency, including the construction of tarred roads, and requested Dr. Usi to convey their thanks to President Lazarus Chakwera.
In addition to his discussions with the vendors, Dr. Usi took time to play a round of ‘bawo’ (a traditional board game) with some vendors, securing a win. He humorously challenged Senior Chief Chigoneka to a future match before departing the market on foot, walking nearly a kilometer to the main road, surrounded by enthusiastic crowds chanting his name.
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