The Economics Association of Malawi (ECAMA) has warned that the World Bank’s upward revision of the International Poverty Line (IPL) for low-income countries will push many Malawians into abject poverty.
IPL is a monetary threshold used to determine an ‘adequate’ level of income.
If a person falls under that threshold, they’re considered to be living in poverty.
Bertha Bangala Chikadza
The World Bank has revised the threshold to $3,approximately K5,000) per person per day from the previous K3,764.
In an interview with 247 Malawi News,ECAMA President Bertha Bangala Chikadza said this signals tough economic times ahead and urged the government to implement measures to cushion the impact on Malawians.
Asked to comment on the same, Youth Support for Social Advancement (YOSSA) Programs and Communications Officer Clement Magombo noted that the adjustment reflects the rising cost of living and highlights the ongoing economic challenges faced by vulnerable communities.
National Planning Commission(NPC) acting Director General (DG ) Joseph Nagoli, whose organisation offers oversight role of MW2063, said the change in IPL does not affect the country’s graduation to a middle income country status.
World Bank data shows that Malawi’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita stands at $602.3 (about K1 million) as of 2023, far below that of the lower middle-income economy of $1 146 (about K2 million) and higher income economies of $14 005 (about K25 million).
With this GDP per capita, Malawi has a poverty rate of 70.1 percent, but going by the higher income GDP per capital standing, the poverty rate in Malawi would be at 97.3 percent, according to the World Bank.
For decades, Malawians have listened to eloquent speeches and grand promises from politicians, only to witness minimal change in the country’s socio-economic landscape. As someone who has spent a decade in journalism, I have covered countless pledges of national development — many of which have faded into the background, leaving citizens disillusioned and stagnant.
Malawi has long been caught in a cycle of underdevelopment, particularly in crucial areas such as infrastructure, food security, and economic empowerment. For years, these fundamental pillars of growth were either ignored or insufficiently addressed. However, in recent years, a wave of change seems to be sweeping across the nation under the leadership of President Dr Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera.
Unlike his predecessors, President Chakwera is not simply echoing promises — he is actioning them. His administration is showing signs of a determined effort to transform the foundations of Malawi’s economy through strategic restructuring and long-term vision alignment with Dr Hastings Kamuzu Banda’s original national aspirations.
Reviving Agriculture Through Innovation
One of the cornerstones of this transformation has been agriculture — a sector critical to Malawi’s economy and livelihoods. Through the Mega Farm Initiative, the government has rolled out large-scale agricultural projects aimed at commercialising farming and ensuring food security.
In tandem with this, the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF) has been revitalised to provide accessible loans to smallholder farmers and agribusiness entrepreneurs, empowering them to scale operations and increase productivity.
Moreover, the Irrigation Scheme Construction and the Affordable Inputs Programme (AIP) are addressing both the unpredictability of rainfall and the high cost of farming inputs — two long-standing barriers to agricultural success in Malawi.
These initiatives are not only strengthening food security but also promoting self-reliance and economic participation in rural communities.
Social Protection and Youth Empowerment
President Chakwera’s administration has also prioritised inclusive development, particularly among vulnerable and underserved populations. The Social Cash Transfer Programme continues to reach impoverished households, while food relief operations are being conducted across all regions, ensuring no Malawian is left behind during times of crisis.
The National Youth Council of Malawi has been instrumental in implementing youth-targeted interventions. Grants and business training opportunities are being provided to empower the youth economically, creating a generation of independent thinkers, innovators, and entrepreneurs.
Infrastructure Development: Roads, Water, and Education
Infrastructure development under Chakwera’s leadership is visibly accelerating. Major road projects — such as the rehabilitation of the M1 and M5 highways (from Kaphatenga to Nkhotakota), the Nsipe–Balaka road, and the Blantyre Bypass — are opening up economic corridors and reducing transport burdens for traders and commuters alike.
In education, the University and College Extension Programme is expanding access to higher education across the country, while new police housing units are improving the welfare of law enforcement officers.
The administration’s efforts to ensure universal access to clean water are also commendable. Projects like the Salima–Lilongwe Water Supply Project and the Nkholongo Multipurpose Dam (under construction) are milestones in achieving sustainable urban water infrastructure.
Women in Leadership
A defining characteristic of President Chakwera’s governance has been the empowerment of women. For the first time in history, Malawian women are occupying critical leadership positions across government ministries, agencies, and departments. From ministerial posts to high-level appointments like the Inspector General of Police and Secretary to the President and Cabinet, women are being recognised for their capability and leadership potential.
This intentional inclusion is not only a win for gender equality but also a reinforcement of the belief that the development of Malawi cannot proceed without the active participation of women.
Restructuring for a Resilient Future
President Chakwera’s economic restructuring efforts are not without challenges. Yet, the visible progress across sectors — agriculture, infrastructure, youth empowerment, and governance — signals a departure from the rhetoric-driven politics of the past.
For the first time in years, Malawians can see a tangible roadmap towards national transformation. While there is still a long way to go, especially in ensuring policy implementation and eradicating corruption, the vision being executed offers hope.
Malawi is not just hearing promises anymore — Malawi is beginning to move.
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has taken a proactive step in addressing concerns regarding the certification of academic and professional documents for individuals applying to become presiding officers.
In a public statement released on June 13, 2025, MEC clarified that it does not charge or benefit from any fees associated with the certification process.
Sangwani
According to MEC, the confusion arises from the fact that certifying officers, such as District Commissioners, Magistrates, Lawyers, or Commissioners for Oaths, may charge a nominal fee for their services.
These officers are often located in the same premises as MEC district offices, leading some to mistakenly believe that the fees are being collected by the Commission.
MEC Director of Media and Public Relations, Sangwani Mwafulirwa, signed the statement, emphasizing that the Commission does not require, collect, or benefit from any certification fees.
This clarification is crucial in ensuring that applicants are not misled or taken advantage of during the application process.
The certification of documents is a requirement for the application process, and MEC wants to ensure that applicants understand the process and the associated costs. While MEC does not benefit from the certification fees, the Commission is committed to ensuring that the application process is transparent and fair.
Journalists in the country have been urged to play a vital role in promoting peace and unity in the country ahead of the September 16 elections.
Speaking at the Association of Muslim Journalists (AMUJO) Annual General Meeting (AGM ) in Blantyre on Saturday, Minister of Water and Sanitation, Abida Mia, emphasized the importance of responsible journalism in maintaining social cohesion.
Abida Mia
Mia noted that journalists have a critical role to play in shaping public opinion and influencing the narrative around key issues.
“Freedom of speech is a fundamental right, but it must be exercised with wisdom and responsibility,” she said.
The minister highlighted the government’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for journalists to operate, but also emphasized the need for journalists to be mindful of the impact of their words on society.
“Journalists must ensure that they are building, not breaking, the fabric of society,” added Mia.
On his part,AMUJO President, Chekaukutu Ndege, welcomed the minister’s remarks and pledged the association’s commitment to promoting peace and unity through responsible journalism.
The AGM provided a platform for Muslim journalists to discuss the challenges they face in promoting peace and coexistence through their work and to brainstorm ways to improve their reporting.
Clever Chikwata’s lone goal was enough to give Ekhaya FC maximum points to cement their third position on the TNM Super League log table, as they beat Creck Sporting Club 1-0 at Kamuzu Stadium.
The home side started the game very well and they got their first chance 10 minutes from kick-off through a free kick which was taken by Chimwemwe Yassin but went straight into the palms of Creck goalkeeper Brighton Munthali.
The visitors on the other hand had their first chance in the 17th minute following a beautiful exchange of passes between Arnold Kiyama and Jauma Edward who found Babangida Ishaya but the Nigerian’s header went over the cross bar.
Four minutes later, Ekhaya broke the deadlock through Chikwata who scored with a simple tap-in after receiving a cross from Hadji James.
In the second half, Creck Sporting new coach Elia Kananji, brought in Jackson Beza for Frank Phiri as George Chaomba and Kondwani Chilembwe replaced Babangida Ishaya and Harvey Nasiyaya.
Later on the the visitors brought in Ademola Ajibola and Mischeck Botomani who replaced Hassan Hussein and Aaron Chilipa.
The Cowboys on the other hand brought in Lovemore Mbeta for Chimwemwe Yassin and later on Innocent Msowoya and James Lumbe replaced Stanley Billiat and Hadji James.
The visitors played very well in the second half but still failed to find an equaliser as Nasiyaya and Hussein missed some clear-cut chances.
Ten minutes before the end of the match, Arnold Kiyama almost found the back of the net from a free kick but his powerful shot missed the upright with just an inch.
Despite the win, Ekhaya remain third on the log table but they have now closed the gap on league leaders FCB Nyasa Big Bullets to just two points as they are now level at 16 points with second placed Might Wanderers.
Creck are on position 9 on the log table as they have accumulated 11 points after playing 9 games.
Elsewhere, the match between Civil Service United and Mafco FC ended goalless at Civo Stadium.
On Sunday, Kamuzu Barracks will host Mighty Wanderers at Champion Stadium as Moyale Barraks plays Chitipa United at Rumphi Stadium.
Karonga United will play Mzuzu City Hammers at Karonga Stadium as Premier Bet Dedza Dynamos host Songwe United at Dedza Stadium.
Blue Eagles will be at home against defending champions Silver Strikers and in Blantyre, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets will host Mighty Tigers at Kamuzu Stadium.
