By Suleman Chitera
Finance Minister Joseph Mathyola Mwanamvekha has praised Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) officers at Dedza Border for their dedication, professionalism and continued efforts to meet revenue collection targets, describing their work as critical to the country’s economic development.
Mwanamvekha made the remarks during a working visit to Dedza Border, where he engaged MRA staff and assessed the operational challenges affecting revenue collection, border management and service delivery.
The visit provided an opportunity for the Minister to appreciate first-hand the work being carried out by revenue officers at one of Malawi’s key border points, while also listening to concerns affecting their day-to-day operations.
Among the challenges raised by the officers was a shortage of computers and other essential equipment. According to the staff, inadequate access to computers is putting additional pressure on officers and has the potential to slow down some operational processes.
Mwanamvekha assured the MRA team that Government would give attention to the challenges raised, emphasising the importance of providing public officers with the tools and working environment they need to perform effectively.
He stressed that strengthening the capacity of revenue officers is essential to improving domestic resource mobilisation, enhancing efficiency and protecting Government revenue.
The Minister further recognised the role played by MRA officers in ensuring that Government continues to collect the resources required to finance public services and national development programmes.
He commended the Dedza Border team for what he described as professionalism, commitment and patriotism, noting that revenue collection is not simply about meeting targets but also about contributing directly to the functioning and development of the country.
Government relies heavily on domestically generated revenue to support sectors such as education, health, infrastructure, agriculture and other public services. Effective revenue collection therefore remains a key component of efforts to strengthen Malawi’s economy and reduce pressure on limited public resources.
The Minister’s visit also highlighted the importance of maintaining efficient and well-resourced border operations. As a major entry and exit point, Dedza Border plays an important role in facilitating legitimate trade and movement while ensuring that applicable taxes, duties and other government revenues are properly collected.
Mwanamvekha encouraged the officers to continue carrying out their responsibilities with integrity and professionalism, assuring them that Government recognises the importance of their contribution to the national economy.
The engagement reflects the Government’s broader emphasis on strengthening revenue mobilisation and improving the efficiency of public institutions at a time when Malawi continues to face significant economic and fiscal pressures.
For MRA officers working on the frontline, access to adequate equipment remains an important part of achieving these objectives. Addressing the shortage of computers and other operational needs could help improve efficiency, reduce unnecessary delays and enable officers to handle their responsibilities more effectively.
The Minister’s message was therefore both an appreciation of the work already being done and a commitment to addressing some of the practical challenges facing revenue officers.
With continued investment in human resources, technology and border infrastructure, authorities expect revenue collection and service delivery to become more efficient, supporting Government’s efforts to mobilise resources for national development.
Mwanamvekha’s engagement with the Dedza Border team underscores the critical role of MRA employees in Malawi’s economic management—and the importance of ensuring that those entrusted with collecting public revenue are adequately equipped to deliver on their mandate.
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