By Suleman Chitera
President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has unveiled a fresh package of government programs aimed at improving livelihoods, strengthening the economy, and enhancing public service delivery as Malawi prepares for a new agricultural season and renewed industrial development.
Speaking during the official opening of the 52nd Session of Parliament in Lilongwe, Mutharika outlined key policy reforms and development commitments that his administration says are designed to lift millions of Malawians out of poverty and stimulate job creation across the nation.
Farm Input Subsidy Programme to Benefit 1.1 Million Farmers
One of the headline initiatives is the new Farm Input Subsidy Programme (FISP) which will start in the second week of November. Under the subsidised arrangement, farmers will pay K10,000 for a 50kg bag of fertiliser and a 5kg seed pack.
The programme is expected to benefit 1.1 million farming households nationwide. According to Mutharika, this move aims at ensuring food security and stabilising maize production at a time when many households continue to struggle with rising input costs.
“Our goal is to ensure that no Malawian dies of hunger. Every household must have food on the table,” Mutharika emphasized.
Reintroduction of Constituency Development Fund (CDF)
To improve development at community level, the government will reintroduce a reformed Constituency Development Fund. Under the new structure:
Each constituency will receive K5 billion per year
Youth business loans will receive K100 million per constituency
Women’s business loans will also receive K100 million per constituency
The funding aims to support local development, expand youth employment opportunities, and empower women to grow small and medium-scale businesses.
Industrialisation Agenda Targets Key Sectors
President Mutharika also highlighted a new push for industrialisation driven by the private sector. Government support will focus on six high-potential industries, namely:
