Following yesterday’s protests in Lilongwe by vendors over rising prices of goods, some shops in the capital have begun complying with the government’s demands. A snap survey conducted on Wednesday, February 26th, 2025, revealed that prices of second-hand clothes have dropped effective today. This development follows assurances from Minister of Trade Hon. Sosten Gwengwe and Minister of Local Government Hon. Richard Chimwendo Banda that market conditions would improve.
For instance, the price of a No.1 bale has decreased from K1.1 million to K680,000, a medium bale from K750,000 to K420,000, a mixed dress bale from K690,000 to K450,000, and a polysilk dress bale from K1,350,000 to K850,000.
Gwengwe emphasized that this is just the beginning, reaffirming the government’s commitment to addressing citizens’ concerns. “Prices will continue to drop as we ensure Malawians are not exploited by arbitrary price hikes,” he stated.
Shoppers at Bwalo la Njovu praised the government’s swift response and urged continued engagement with traders to curb frequent price increases. While some Kaunjika shops remained closed due to protest fears, most are expected to reopen tomorrow. Kaunjika sellers in Sikawanjala, Dedza district, welcomed the price reductions, noting that the new rates will enable them to earn a profit and sustain their businesses.
