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MRA celebrates 25 years of growth and resilience as a pillar of Malawi’s development

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MRA celebrates 25 years of growth and resilience as a pillar of Malawi’s development



By Jones Gadama

Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) Board Chairperson Vizenge Kumwenda has commended the institution’s remarkable growth and resilience over the past 25 years.

Speaking at the official launch of MRA’s Silver Jubilee celebrations in Lilongwe, Kumwenda described the MRA as a strong pillar of national development.

He expressed gratitude to President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera for attending the event, noting that his presence signifies strong support for domestic revenue mobilization.

Vizenge Kumwenda



Kumwenda highlighted the MRA’s significant expansion since its establishment in 2000, growing from just over 200 staff to more than 1,700 professionals operating in over 30 stations nationwide.

He announced that MRA has exceeded its July 2025 revenue target by over 25 percent, attributing this outstanding performance to reforms, innovation, and the dedication of staff.

Despite facing various economic shocks, the COVID-19 pandemic, and donor aid withdrawal, the Authority has consistently met and exceeded its targets.

The Board Chairperson paid tribute to former Commissioner Generals and thanked taxpayers and staff for their crucial role in supporting Malawi’s development through sustainable revenue collection.

Kumwenda’s remarks underscore the MRA’s commitment to driving Malawi’s economic growth and development.

As the MRA continues to evolve and strengthen, it remains a vital institution in Malawi’s quest for self-reliance.

The Silver Jubilee celebrations mark a significant milestone in the MRA’s history, highlighting its achievements and resilience over the past quarter century.

The event serves as a testament to the MRA’s dedication to its mission and its ongoing contribution to Malawi’s national development.

With its strong track record and continued commitment to excellence, the MRA is well-positioned to support Malawi’s future growth and prosperity.

MRA celebrated for transforming Malawi’s tax collection and bolstering government finances

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MRA celebrated for transforming Malawi’s tax collection and bolstering government finances



By Jones Gadama

The Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) is being hailed for its pivotal role in driving reforms that have transformed tax collection and strengthened government finances over the past 25 years.

Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Simplex Chithyola-Banda made the commendation during the MRA’s silver jubilee celebrations at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe.

According to Chithyola-Banda, the MRA now contributes more than 80 percent of government revenue, covering over 60 percent of the national budget.

Chithyola



This significant achievement is attributed to the tax body’s adoption of automation, wider use of digital platforms, and the broadening of the tax base.

These measures have improved efficiency, transparency, and compliance, enabling the government to fund essential services such as roads, schools, and hospitals.

“MRA has played a pivotal role in mobilising domestic resources since its establishment in 2000,” Chithyola-Banda said. “These taxes have made possible the roads we travel, the schools our children attend, and the hospitals that serve our people.”

The Minister added that the government’s domestic resource mobilisation strategy will further support MRA’s work, aligning with the MW2063 vision of building a self-reliant economy.

The MRA’s achievements over the past 25 years are a testament to its commitment to transforming Malawi’s tax collection landscape.

As the government continues to work towards building a self-reliant economy, the MRA’s role in mobilising domestic resources will remain crucial.

The celebrations mark an important milestone in the MRA’s history and underscore the importance of the tax body in driving Malawi’s economic development.

Chakwera unveils bold tax reforms to boost Malawi’s revenue collection

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Chakwera unveils bold tax reforms to boost Malawi’s revenue collection

By Jones Gadama

Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has announced sweeping policy changes aimed at strengthening tax compliance and transforming the country’s revenue collection system.

Speaking at the Malawi Revenue Authority’s (MRA) silver jubilee celebrations in Lilongwe, Chakwera outlined a series of bold reforms designed to curb decades of malpractice and abuse in government offices.

Key among the reforms is the government’s commitment to abolish cash payments for all taxes and public services within the next five years.

Chakwera



This move is expected to significantly reduce opportunities for corruption and abuse in government offices.

Additionally, Chakwera unveiled plans to deploy tax compliance agents in retail shops and service centers to ensure that customers receive receipts for their transactions.

This measure is aimed at bringing more businesses into the formal tax net and reducing tax evasion.

Furthermore, the President announced the introduction of annual tax certificates for compliant taxpayers.

These certificates will serve as a badge of honor for taxpayers who fulfill their obligations and will allow them to access discounts on essential services such as water, electricity, and toll fees.

This innovative approach is designed to incentivize tax compliance and reward citizens who contribute to the nation’s development.

“These are serious policy shifts less than two months away,” Chakwera emphasized.

“The principle is simple—self-reliance. Malawi can generate enough revenue to finance its own budget, but we need strong systems to galvanize those resources for nation building.”

The President has appointed Minister of Trade and Industry Vitumbiko Mumba to help expedite these reforms, underscoring the government’s commitment to implementing these changes.

These reforms have the potential to significantly boost Malawi’s revenue collection efforts and promote a culture of tax compliance.

By reducing opportunities for corruption and incentivizing taxpayers, the government hopes to increase revenue generation and reduce its reliance on external aid.

As Malawi gears up for these changes, citizens can expect a more transparent and efficient tax system that promotes self-reliance and nation building.

With these bold reforms, Chakwera’s government is taking a crucial step towards building a more sustainable and prosperous future for Malawi.

Tanzania’s Ruling Party Slammed for ‘Political Inheritance Club’ Trend”

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Tanzania’s Ruling Party Slammed for ‘Political Inheritance Club’ Trend”

By Jones Gadama

Tanzania is embroiled in a heated debate after prominent political families, including the wife and son of former President Jakaya Kikwete, secured unopposed nominations from the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party for the upcoming October elections.

Salma Kikwete and Ridhiwani Kikwete will contest parliamentary seats in Mchinga and Chalinze, respectively, without facing any opposition within the party. Joining them is Jesca Magufuli, daughter of the late President John Magufuli, who’s running for a youth-designated special seat.


Critics are furious, accusing CCM of morphing into a “political inheritance club” that prioritizes elite families over ordinary citizens. This trend, they warn, undermines democracy and exacerbates inequality in access to leadership.

Social media is abuzz with anger and sarcasm, with many Tanzanians questioning the party’s commitment to democratic principles.

Former President Jakaya Kikwete defended his family’s unopposed nominations, arguing there’s nothing unusual about the situation. However, critics like former ambassador Humphrey Polepole have voiced strong opposition, stating that this trend weakens the party’s core principles and favors leadership families over capable individuals.

The controversy highlights concerns about CCM’s dominance and the lack of competitiveness in Tanzania’s democratic process.

With the opposition weakened and CCM’s stronghold on power, the outcome of the upcoming elections seems more a formality than a genuine test of multiparty democracy.

Chakwera Honors Top Artists with Blank Media Levy Awards at Kamuzu Palace Gala

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Chakwera Honors Top Artists with Blank Media Levy Awards at Kamuzu Palace Gala



By  Jones Gadama

Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera recently hosted a glittering dinner at Kamuzu Palace, where he presented dummy cheques to the top beneficiaries of the Copyright Society of Malawi’s (COSOMA) Blank Media Levy.

The top recipients included *Eli Njuchi*, who walked away with K23.4 million, followed closely by *Driemo* with K23.3 million. Other notable winners were *Zeze Kingston* (K18.3 million), *Kell Kay* (K15.8 million), and *Saint Realest* (K15.7 million).

During the ceremony, President Chakwera also paid special tribute to veteran artists *Giddes Chalamanda* and *Paul Banda*, recognizing their outstanding contributions to Malawi’s music industry.


Additionally, the President posthumously honored iconic figures such as *Grace Chinga* and *Lucius Banda*, cementing their lasting legacy in Malawian arts.

This gesture underscores the government’s commitment to supporting artists and creators, as COSOMA continues to distribute royalties collected through the Blank Media Levy. In fact, COSOMA has announced a total disbursement of K1.566 billion to 3,524 beneficiaries, marking a significant boost for Malawi’s creative sector.

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