By Suleman Chitera | Lilongwe, Malawi
President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has officially launched a MWK 2 billion Youth Innovation and Empowerment Fund, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to positioning the youth at the center of Malawi’s Vision 2063 development agenda.
Speaking during the 2025 National Youth Summit at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, President Chakwera underscored the role of youth as key agents of change and economic transformation.
“The youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the change-makers of today,” Chakwera said. “Through strategic investment in their ideas and enterprises, we are laying the foundation for a self-reliant, prosperous Malawi.”
The President announced that the fund, which seeks to support youth-led innovations and entrepreneurship, could be scaled up from the current MWK 2 billion to MWK 10 billion due to high demand and its potential to accelerate inclusive economic growth.
According to Rex Chapota, Executive Director of the National Youth Council of Malawi (NYCOM), the initiative attracted over 836 applicants, out of which 150 youth have been selected for the first round of disbursement.
“These selected youth will receive funding ranging between MWK 5 million and MWK 25 million, depending on the scale and nature of their business or innovation proposals,” Chapota explained.
He further noted that the targeted sectors include agriculture, technology, creative industries, and other productive areas aimed at creating jobs and fostering sustainable development.
Duncan Chiyani, Chairperson of the NYCOM Board, encouraged youth to take initiative, engage with decision-makers, and align their proposals with emerging trends and national priorities.
“Young people must be bold enough to innovate and seek support. This is your moment to rise,” said Chiyani.
He added that the fund is not merely a financial lifeline, but a strategic tool to nurture entrepreneurial talent and build a resilient, youth-driven economy.
The summit was attended by several cabinet ministers, including Uchizi Mkandawire (Youth and Sports), Vera Kamtukule (Tourism), Jessie Kabwila (Higher Education), Vitumbiko Mumba (Trade and Industry), and Moses Kunkuyu (Information), signaling cross-sectoral support for youth empowerment.
The Youth Innovation and Empowerment Fund is a flagship initiative under the Vision 2063 First 10-Year Implementation Plan, and is expected to serve as a catalyst for scaling up youth participation in national development.
