By Suleman Chitera
Lilongwe, Malawi — Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Decentralisation, Joseph Mwanamvekha, has called on policymakers, businesses, financial institutions, and industry leaders to work hand in hand with the government to address Malawi’s economic difficulties, stressing that many of the country’s challenges are man-made and can be overcome through coordinated action.Joseph Mwanamvekha: Steering Malawi’s Financial Ship Amid High Expectations
Speaking during the National Consultative Workshop on the proposed National Economic Recovery Plan (NERP) 2025–2030 held at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, Mwanamvekha said the country has reached a critical point where stakeholders must unite to restore economic stability and rebuild confidence in the economy.
The consultative workshop brought together key stakeholders from government ministries, the banking sector, academia, research institutions, and the private sector to discuss and refine strategies aimed at driving economic recovery over the next five years.Mwanamvekha urges MPs not to close vehicle windows
Mwanamvekha described the National Economic Recovery Plan as a strategic blueprint designed to revive Malawi’s struggling economy, which continues to face significant pressure from mounting public debt, foreign exchange shortages, rising inflation, and disruptions in global supply chains.
“This is our opportunity to propose ideas that can restore economic stability and rebuild confidence in our economic system,” Mwanamvekha said.IMF Says Malawi’s Economy Is Improving
He noted that while external shocks have contributed to the country’s economic challenges, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, some of Malawi’s economic difficulties stem from domestic factors that can be addressed through sound policy decisions, discipline, and collaboration among stakeholders.
According to the minister, the proposed NERP 2025–2030 seeks to create a resilient and productive economy by promoting export growth, enhancing foreign exchange generation, strengthening fiscal discipline, supporting private sector development, and increasing investment in key productive sectors such as agriculture, tourism, mining, and manufacturing.
Economic experts attending the workshop emphasized the importance of implementing practical reforms that can stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and improve the livelihoods of Malawians. They also highlighted the need for policy consistency and stronger partnerships between government and the private sector.Chaponda assures IMF of DPP commitment to ECF
The workshop forms part of broader government efforts to gather views and recommendations from stakeholders before finalising the National Economic Recovery Plan, which is expected to serve as a roadmap for addressing Malawi’s economic vulnerabilities and accelerating sustainable growth.
As Malawi continues to navigate economic headwinds, the government hopes that the collective input gathered through the consultative process will help shape effective solutions capable of restoring macroeconomic stability and setting the country on a path toward long-term prosperity.Mutharika Applauds Lions Club for Transforming Lives Through Humanitarian Work
The National Economic Recovery Plan is expected to play a central role in guiding policy interventions aimed at overcoming current challenges while positioning Malawi for greater economic resilience and competitiveness in the years ahead.