By Wadza Botomani

President Lazarus Chakwera has reaffirmed his commitment to creating large-scale markets for Malawians in the food production sector to ensure nationwide food accessibility. Speaking at the MCP 2025 campaign launch in Mzimba on Tuesday, Chakwera emphasized that expanding food reserve facilities and increasing farmer loans will boost production, making food more readily available. 

“As a country, we need to produce our own food to eliminate hunger. Additionally, this will create jobs in food production and processing, helping Malawians improve their livelihoods,” he said. 

Acknowledging current economic struggles, Chakwera announced plans for a Sovereign Welfare Fund to secure future income for newborns. Under this initiative, each child will receive K500,000 at birth, accessible at age 18 as startup capital. 

“While we are expanding youth loans and job opportunities, more must be done given our large youth population. Through exports, mining, and other revenues, this fund will ensure future generations have financial independence from the start,” he explained. 

Chakwera also pledged to appoint at least four ministers under 35 in his next cabinet, stressing the importance of investing in future leaders. “If we want a better Malawi, we must not fear investing in the next generation,” he said.