By Suleman Chitera
LILONGWE, Malawi – An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff mission has concluded a 10-day visit to Malawi aimed at assessing the country’s economic situation and initiating discussions on a possible Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement to support the government’s recovery agenda.
The mission, led by IMF Mission Chief Justin Tyson, visited Lilongwe and Blantyre from June 8 to June 18, 2026, following a request by the Malawi Government for financial support under the ECF programme.
In a statement issued at the end of the visit, Tyson described the discussions with Malawian authorities as constructive and acknowledged recent measures taken by the government to address key economic challenges.IMF Says Malawi’s Economy Is Improving
“The IMF team held constructive discussions with the Malawian authorities on the economic situation and policy priorities,” Tyson said.
He noted that the Fund welcomed recent government actions aimed at aligning domestic prices with global market conditions, stabilising public finances, and tackling food security concerns affecting many households across the country.
According to the IMF, Malawian authorities reaffirmed their commitment to implementing sound and credible economic policies designed to restore and maintain macroeconomic stability while promoting inclusive and resilient economic growth.World Bank, IMF Commend Mutharika Administration for Economic Management Amid Global Pressures
“Discussions will continue on the package of policies and reforms that could be supported under an ECF arrangement,” Tyson added.
During the mission, the IMF delegation held meetings with Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Decentralisation Joseph Mwanamvekha, Reserve Bank of Malawi Governor Dr. George Partridge, Secretary to the Treasury Dr. Cliff Chiunda, and other senior government officials.Zambia Clears IMF Debt as Lusaka Pushes Ahead with Broader Debt Restructuring Talks
The team also consulted representatives from the private sector, commercial banks, and development partners to gain broader perspectives on Malawi’s economic outlook and reform priorities.
The visit marks another step in Malawi’s efforts to secure international financial support as the country seeks to address economic pressures, strengthen fiscal discipline, and accelerate recovery under the National Economic Recovery Plan (NERP).
The IMF team expressed appreciation to the Government of Malawi and all stakeholders for their cooperation, hospitality, and constructive engagement throughout the mission.Malawi, IMF to Begin Extended Credit Facility Talks in June





