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Mutharika’s empowerment push: Stakeholders PRAISE SONA’s focus on youth and women

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Mutharika’s empowerment push: Stakeholders PRAISE SONA’s focus on youth and women



By Burnett Munthali

Various stakeholders have commended President Peter Mutharika for prioritising youth and women empowerment in his State of the Nation Address (Sona).

Mutharika announced that from the 2026/27 financial year, government will allocate K100 million in annual soft loans for youth and another K100 million for women in every constituency.

This move is expected to provide a significant boost to entrepreneurship and economic growth, particularly among marginalised groups.

He also pledged to prioritise community colleges, resume construction of abandoned institutions, continue the Graduate Internship Programme and disburse K250 million in grants to persons with disabilities.

Mutharika



These initiatives demonstrate the government’s commitment to investing in human capital and promoting inclusive development.

CTS Funeral and Courier Services Director Jacqueline Bokosi described the address as inspiring, saying the initiatives will uplift youths and women who are often at the bottom of the economic pyramid.

She, however, urged beneficiaries to use the funds prudently to ensure sustainable businesses and lasting economic benefits.

This call to action highlights the importance of responsible financial management and entrepreneurship skills in achieving sustainable growth.

The stakeholders’ positive response to Mutharika’s SONA reflects the widespread desire for transformative change and economic empowerment in Malawi.

The government’s focus on youth and women empowerment is a step in the right direction, with potential to drive meaningful change and reduce poverty.

The success of these initiatives will depend on effective implementation and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Overall, Mutharika’s SONA has sparked hope and optimism among Malawians, particularly among the youth and women, who are eager to seize opportunities and contribute to national development.

Malawi’s President Arthur Peter Mutharika Honoured for Pan-African Leadership

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Malawi’s President Arthur Peter Mutharika Honoured for Pan-African Leadership

By Durell Namasani


President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has been celebrated for his exceptional leadership and political astuteness at the prestigious Iconic Africa Summit Honors 2026, held in Harare, Zimbabwe. The accolade recognises his significant contributions to the continent’s progress and his unwavering commitment to democratic governance.

Unable to attend in person, the Malawian leader was represented by the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Dr Ben Malunga Phiri, who received the award from Zimbabwe’s Vice President, Dr Kembo Mohadi. During the ceremony, Vice President Mohadi extended his congratulations to all the honorees, acknowledging their vital roles in advancing the African agenda.

Malunga receiving the honours



Speaking to the press after the event, Dr Phiri described the recognition as a testament to President Mutharika’s dedication to both Malawi and the broader African development landscape. He highlighted the President’s trailblazing achievements and his steadfast adherence to democratic values as key drivers behind the honour. Dr Phiri further stated that the President remains inspired by the summit’s call to “move boldly” and will continue to vigorously pursue Malawi’s development goals with renewed vigour.

The summit convened a distinguished array of delegates and honorees from across the continent, with representatives from Eswatini, Angola, Tanzania, Zambia, South Africa, Namibia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, and Botswana, underscoring the regional significance of the gathering.

Growth Figures Mask Harsh Economic Reality in Mutharika’s SONA

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Growth Figures Mask Harsh Economic Reality in Mutharika’s SONA

By Durell Namasani

President Peter Mutharika delivered his State of the Nation address today, painting a picture of an economy on the cusp of a significant turnaround, but a closer examination of the figures reveals projections that strain credibility against the backdrop of Malawi’s persistent structural weaknesses.

The address boasted of inflation dropping from 28.7 percent in September 2025 to below 21 percent in 2026, alongside real GDP growth accelerating from 2.7 percent to 3.8 percent next year and 4.9 percent by 2027. While such a trajectory would be welcome, the claim that the nation can achieve a seven to eight percentage point disinflation and nearly double its growth in just two years requires ignoring the country’s fundamental economic realities.

Mutharika delivering the SONA



The feasibility of these targets is undermined by three critical and ongoing challenges. Firstly, foreign exchange reserves remain distressingly low, stuck well below the recommended three months of import cover. Without adequate forex, businesses cannot secure the inputs necessary to drive the very growth the President projects. Secondly, the economy remains dangerously exposed due to its heavy reliance on imported fuel and fertilizer, leaving it vulnerable to external price shocks beyond any local policy control.

Most significantly, the private sector, which would need to lead this expansion, is in a fragile state. As noted by critics, the sector has been “crowded out” by excessive public borrowing and continues to suffer from unreliable power supply, inadequate transport networks, and pervasive policy uncertainty. A SONA that glosses over these choke points offers statistical comfort rather than a credible roadmap for the genuine economic relief Malawians are waiting for.

Mutharika delivers SONA Economic revival on the horizon

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Mutharika delivers SONA Economic revival on the horizon

By Burnett Munthali

In a landmark address, President Arthur Peter Mutharika has unveiled a bold economic rescue plan, marking a decisive new chapter for Malawi. The plan focuses on economic stabilization, institutional reform, and people-centered development, aiming to restore the country’s dignity and prosperity.

The President’s comprehensive roadmap includes restoring discipline in public sector management, stimulating growth, and improving macroeconomic stability. Inflation is projected to fall below 21% in 2026, and economic growth is expected to rise to 3.8% in 2026 and 4.9% in 2027. Austerity measures, including reduced fuel entitlements for ministers, will support long-term gains.

Key initiatives include increasing the Constituency Development Fund to MK5 billion per constituency, promoting local fertilizer production, and developing Special Economic Zones. The government will also prioritize energy, transport, education, and healthcare infrastructure development, with a focus on empowering citizens and driving sustainable growth.

Mutharika delivering SONA



The President’s vision is built on the principles of good governance, rule of law, and fiscal responsibility. He has warned that corruption will not be tolerated and declared “no sacred cows” under his administration. With the support of Right Honorable Vice President Dr. Jane Ansah SC, JA, (Retired), and the entire government, Malawi is poised to overcome its challenges and emerge stronger.

The road ahead will be challenging, but with unity, justice, and shared responsibility, Malawi can achieve sustainable growth and prosperity. The government is committed to working with all stakeholders to implement this bold economic rescue plan and build a brighter future for all Malawians.

This plan is a testament to the government’s commitment to putting the people first and addressing the pressing challenges facing the nation. With determination and collective effort, Malawi can overcome its difficulties and emerge stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous.

The President’s address has set the tone for a renewed focus on economic development, institutional strengthening, and citizen empowerment. As Malawi embarks on this journey, the government is committed to transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. Together, we can build a brighter future for Malawi.

Let us join hands to implement this bold economic rescue plan and create a prosperous, stable, and united Malawi. The time for action is now, and the future is bright.

Judiciary Speaks Out on Appeal Court Ruling Over Finance Bank Closure

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Judiciary Speaks Out on Appeal Court Ruling Over Finance Bank Closure



By Rahim Abdul

Malawi’s Judiciary has expressed concern over public reactions surrounding a recent ruling by the Court of Appeal on the controversial closure of Finance Bank in 2005 by the Reserve Bank of Malawi.

In a statement released by Registrar of the High Court and Supreme Court of Appeal, Innocent Nebi, the Judiciary clarified key aspects of the ruling to address what it described as misunderstandings circulating among the public.

According to the statement, the Court of Appeal did not determine or announce the specific amount of compensation to be paid in the matter. Instead, the court directed the Assistant Registrar of the Court of Appeal to assess the issue of damages in line with Section 65 of the Courts Act.



The Judiciary emphasized that the process of assessing compensation will follow established legal procedures and that any financial determination will be made after thorough review and consideration of the law.

The statement further stressed that courts in Malawi remain independent and are guided strictly by the Constitution and other applicable laws in delivering judgments.

Citing Section 9 of the Constitution, the Judiciary reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is administered without interference or bias.

The clarification follows last week’s landmark decision by the Court of Appeal, which found that the Reserve Bank of Malawi did not follow the law when it closed Finance Bank in 2005.

At the time, the central bank had taken action against Finance Bank over alleged violations of foreign exchange regulations, a move that later sparked legal battles stretching over two decades.

The recent ruling has reignited debate across the country, with various stakeholders weighing in on the implications of the judgment and the potential financial impact on the government.

However, the Judiciary has urged the public to rely on official court documents and statements, warning against misinformation as the legal process regarding compensation continues to unfold.

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