By Suleman Chitera
The Parliamentary Committee on Public Appointments (PAC) has formally approved the appointment of George Partridge as Governor of the Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM), clearing the final procedural hurdle for him to assume leadership of the country’s central bank.
The confirmation was announced through a statement published on the Reserve Bank’s official Facebook page, signalling parliamentary endorsement of President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika’s nomination made on the 23rd of last month.
Partridge brings extensive experience in both public service and the private sector to the role. Prior to his appointment, he served as Minister of Industry, Trade and Tourism, where he was responsible for policy direction in key productive sectors of the economy. His tenure at the ministry placed him at the centre of efforts aimed at stimulating industrial growth, expanding trade opportunities and promoting Malawi as a tourism destination.
A seasoned economist and banker, Partridge’s professional roots trace back to the Reserve Bank itself. He began his career in 1983 in the Bank’s Economics Department, gaining technical expertise in monetary policy analysis and macroeconomic management. Over the years, he transitioned into senior executive roles within the financial sector.
He previously served as Chief Executive Officer of National Bank of Malawi, one of the country’s leading commercial banks. In addition, he headed Press Corporation, a diversified conglomerate with interests across multiple sectors of the economy. These roles positioned him as a prominent figure in Malawi’s corporate landscape, with oversight of complex financial and investment portfolios.
As Governor of the Reserve Bank, Partridge will be tasked with steering monetary policy, maintaining price stability, regulating the banking sector, and safeguarding the stability of the financial system. His appointment comes at a time when the country faces persistent macroeconomic pressures, including inflationary trends, foreign exchange constraints, and fiscal challenges.
Observers say his blend of central banking experience and corporate leadership will be critical as the Reserve Bank navigates the evolving economic environment.
