Market vendors in Zomba district can now sell their stuff safely for extended hours thanks to the installation of solar lighting in rural markets.

The lights were installed in Songani, Bimbi, Namasalima, Sakata, Ngwalangwa, Namwera Turn Off and Somba markets.

Speaking during an inspection tour, Bimbi Market chairperson Fanwell Yussuf said the initiative has helped them to increase their profits.

Yussuf said they will make sure that the solar lights are well taken care of by mobilizing funds to employ a guard.

Losbay Kenneth, agro business trader, said she now has ample business time.

“Previously the market gates closed at 5:00 pm but with the coming in of the lights they close at around 8:00 pm which is good as I am making a lot of profits,” she said.

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is implementing Transformation of Agriculture through building Resilience and Harnessing Green Opportunities (TARGO) project with funding from the Japanese government.

Assistant Trade Officer for Zomba District Council Mphatso Chokani said the project seeks to provide a safe environment for small-scale agricultural farmers by among others, installing solar powered lights within and around marketplaces.

Chokani said the initiative will help in boosting farmer’s earnings and cutting their costs on battery-powered torches.