By Wadza Botomani
Malawians are expressing significant concern on social media over Vice President Dr. Jane Ansah’s upcoming private visit to the United Kingdom, questioning the necessity and cost of a reported 15-member official delegation accompanying her.
The trip, scheduled from December 26, 2025, to January 10, 2026, was announced as a private visit. The news has sparked a fierce online debate, with many citizens asking if this is an appropriate use of public funds while the country faces severe economic challenges. Critics on social media are directly questioning how such expenditure aligns with recently announced government austerity measures.
While the specific itinerary has not been detailed, the Vice President has personal and professional ties to the UK. She holds a PhD from the University of Nottingham, where she is listed as a distinguished alumna.
The controversy stands in contrast to the Vice President’s recent public duties. Just days ago, she was presiding over the launch of a national hunger response program, highlighting a K209.4 billion init
iative aimed at supporting households affected by food insecurity. This juxtaposition between domestic austerity and international travel has fueled public skepticism.
As of now, there has been no official statement from the Vice President’s office or the government clarifying the purpose or funding of the delegation for the private visit. The growing social media discontent reflects broader questions about governance and the prioritization of resources during a period of national economic difficulty.