Suleman Chitera 
By Suleman Chitera, MFN Reporter
November 7, 2026
United Democratic Front (UDF) President Atupele Austin Muluzi has welcomed signs of improvement in Malawi’s economic management but cautioned that millions of citizens continue to struggle with rising living costs and economic uncertainty.
In a statement published on his official Facebook page, Muluzi referred to the latest Afrobarometer survey released in November 2026, which indicates growing public confidence in the government’s handling of the economy.
According to the findings, 53 percent of Malawians approve of the government’s economic management, representing a significant 32-percentage-point increase from 21 percent recorded in 2024.
The survey further shows that 54 percent of respondents approve of government efforts to create a favourable business environment, while 52 percent express satisfaction with efforts to control inflation.
Muluzi said the positive developments deserve recognition, regardless of political affiliations, but warned against interpreting improved approval ratings as evidence that the country’s economic problems have been resolved.
He pointed to continuing public dissatisfaction, with 60 percent of Malawians believing the country is heading in the wrong direction, while 58 percent describe the national economic situation as fairly or very bad.
The survey also highlights differences in public opinion over possible economic interventions.
About 68 percent of respondents oppose Kwacha devaluation as a solution to foreign exchange shortages, while 67 percent support reducing fuel prices even if doing so could result in shortages.
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Meanwhile, 52 percent favour reducing government borrowing, while 56 percent oppose increasing agricultural commodity prices as a way of supporting farmers.
Muluzi has called for practical economic policies focused on increasing domestic production, improving foreign exchange availability, ensuring reliable fuel supplies, attracting investment and creating employment opportunities.
He stressed that economic recovery should go beyond improved statistics and positive public sentiment, arguing that its real impact must be reflected in the daily lives of ordinary Malawians.
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He said households, businesses, farmers and young people should begin experiencing tangible benefits from economic improvements.
Muluzi’s remarks highlight the challenge facing Malawi’s economic recovery: translating growing confidence in government management into lower living costs, stronger business activity, better employment opportunities and improved household incomes.
His message calls for a balanced assessment of the economy, recognising areas of progress while maintaining pressure for solutions to the challenges that continue to affect ordinary citizens.
