By Jones Gadama
President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has told the country’s top business body that Malawi’s economic future depends on putting the private sector at the center of development.
The President met a delegation from the Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, MCCCI, on Friday at Palace.
The team was led by MCCCI President Mr. Ronald Ngwira.
During the meeting, discussions centered on how government and business can work closer to grow the economy and create jobs for Malawians.
Speaking after the engagement, President Mutharika said no nation has ever reached sustainable development without a strong and active private sector.
He described businesses as the true drivers of growth, innovation and employment.
“My administration is fully committed to building an environment where businesses can start, grow and thrive,” the President said.
He added, “When we empower our private sector, we are directly empowering Malawians. That is how we create opportunities, stimulate growth, and move the country forward.”
MCCCI President Mr. Ngwira welcomed the President’s assurance, saying the business community is ready to partner with government to unlock Malawi’s economic potential.
The meeting comes at a time when government is pushing to attract more investment, reduce the cost of doing business, and support local companies to compete regionally and globally.
President Mutharika reiterated that his government’s approach remains focused on the people.
“We are sustaining a people-centered government,” he said,adding that, “That means policies that protect businesses will ultimately protect families and communities.”
Business players have in the past months been calling for policy consistency, access to finance, and better infrastructure as key areas to help the private sector deliver.
With this renewed pledge from State House, MCCCI says it expects to see faster implementation of reforms that will make Malawi more attractive to both local and foreign investors.
