By Mabvuto Kalawa
For a long time we have been hearing that Malawi has received donations of huge amounts from different countries and organizations. The question now is: should Malawi continue depending on donors for its development?
Some say yes. Others say no. Our reporter took time to investigate this issue across the country.
Mr. Elton Chipolonga of Machinjiri said Malawi can do better without depending on donors. What is lacking, he said, is seriousness and proper strategy.
“Malawi has a lot of resources. We have natural resources and perennial rivers, but we fail to utilize them. Donors have taken advantage of our weakness,” he said. He concluded that if politics can be put aside, Malawi can definitely stand on its own.
Mr. Leo Phiri of Balaka, Traditional Authority Amidu, agreed with Mr. Chipolonga. He also said corruption among leaders is a major problem.
“Imagine during the reign of the MCP, how can respected national leaders buy fertilizer from unknown traders? Is that the way we can stand on our own?” he asked.
Miss Agnes Lufeyo, also of Balaka, advised government to think outside the box if Malawi wants to be free from donor dependency.
“The way we are doing things, we cannot run away from donors. Mind you, this is indirect poverty. We are a rich country but poor in mindset. We must change the way we do our things. Depending on donors has its own disadvantages,” she said. She blamed government for failing to come up with strategies to end donor dependence.
The question every Malawian should ask is: for how long should Malawi depend on others?
Our leaders, you have a task at hand.
