Malawi
now browsing by tag
IMF Urges Malawi to Uphold Fiscal Discipline Amid Economic Challenges
Lilongwe, Malawi The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reiterated its call for Malawi’s government to maintain rigorous fiscal discipline and prioritise productive spending in order to stabilise its economy a pressing message delivered following the Fund’s recent Article IV consultation with the country. IMF eLibrary+2IMF eLibrary+2
During the assessment, the IMF noted that while Malawi has experienced some revenue growth in the 2024/25 fiscal year, its vulnerability remains high owing to elevated inflation, heavy public debt, and external challenges. The deficit in the 2024/25 fiscal year stood at around 10.1 percent of GDP. IMF eLibrary+1
The IMF’s “Frequently Asked Questions” paper on Malawi emphasises that fiscal policy in countries with narrow revenue bases and high spending pressures must focus on: collecting more revenues through tax-administration reforms, ensuring expenditure is efficient and well-targeted, and protecting social outlays while avoiding unsustainable borrowing. IMF
Minister of Finance Joseph Mwanamvekha described the IMF team’s visit as a “fact-finding mission” that provided the Fund with a clearer picture of Malawi’s economic situation. He affirmed that talks have covered how to boost recovery and explore potential new IMF programmes, following the termination of the previous Extended Credit Facility (ECF) after only US$35 million of the US$175 million commitment was disbursed. Reuters+1
Key Recommendations from the IMF
-
Prioritise useful spending: The IMF stresses that Malawi must focus on investment that enhances growth-potential such as infrastructure, agriculture, energy and human capital rather than consumption spending which does not yield long-term returns.
-
Strengthen revenue mobilization: With high deficits and limited resources, Malawi must improve tax collection, broaden the tax base, reduce exemptions and enhance compliance. IMF eLibrary+1
-
Maintain debt sustainability: Malawi’s debt remains elevated and servicing it consumes a large share of revenues. The IMF emphasizes that without better fiscal balance, debt risks worsen. Reuters+1
-
Implement structural reforms: Beyond fiscal policy, reforms in governance, public financial management, and the exchange-rate regime are considered critical by the IMF to create lasting stability. IMF
Implications for Malawi
Malawi’s economy is facing multiple headwinds: inflation remained high; foreign exchange reserves were low; and growth prospects modest. The need to stabilise macroeconomics becomes more urgent as public expectations rise and external vulnerabilities persist. For this reason, the IMF’s message carries extra weight now.
What to Watch Next
-
Whether Malawi secures a new IMF programme or staff-monitored arrangement that conditions support on specified reforms. Reuters reported productive talks with the Malawian government in late October 2025 about a new programme. Reuters
-
How Malawi’s government starts to implement revenue reforms and public-expenditure prioritisation. Progress in these areas will be a key indicator of whether fiscal discipline is being strengthened in practice.
-
Transparent publication of budget performance, debt servicing, and external-account management will also matter for investor confidence and donor support.
-
The broader impact on social spending: balancing austerity or fiscal tightening with safeguarding essential public services will be a delicate challenge.
Malawi to Launch “Unite to End Digital Gender-Based Violence” for 16 Days of Activism 2025
Lilongwe, Malawi The Government of Malawi, through its Ministry of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare, has announced that the 2025 edition of the global campaign 16 Days of Activism against Gender‑Based Violence will be observed from 25 November to 10 December under the national theme “Unite to End Digital Gender-Based Violence in Malawi”. This year’s official launch is scheduled to take place in Balaka District, signalling a strong focus on emerging forms of violence inflicted via digital platforms.
According to the published concept note, the campaign will primarily address the growing challenge of online abuse and digital gender-based violence (DGBV) targeting women and girls. Specific priority areas include image-based violence (such as non-consensual sharing of intimate images), cyber-bullying, online sexual exploitation, harassment on social media platforms (including Facebook, WhatsApp, TikTok) and other forms of digital misuse. UN Women+2UN Women+2
The Ministry emphasises that while Malawi has long been active in the 16 Days of Activism campaign, the 2025 edition marks a deliberate shift toward digital spaces, acknowledging that technology has become a significant vector for gender-based harm. The concept note highlights that perpetrators increasingly exploit digital tools to inflict gender-based harm, abuse, hate speech, control, harassment and violence a trend documented across the continent. UN Women+1
Objectives & Key Activities
The campaign in Malawi is set to achieve several key objectives:
-
Raise awareness among citizens especially young women and girls about the nature and risks of digital gender-based violence and how to report it.
-
Promote safer online spaces by engaging telecommunication companies, social-media platforms, digital rights organisations and community groups to implement awareness-raising and preventive measures.
-
Strengthen legal and community responses by reviewing existing policy frameworks, improving coordination across the justice and cyber-security sectors, and mobilising local leaders to challenge harmful digital practices.
-
Encourage investment in prevention not only reacting to violence but proactively designing digital-safe programmes, supporting survivors, and changing the digital culture around gender.
Launch in Balaka District
The official launch event in Balaka District on 25 November will bring together government officials, civil society organisations, youth and digital activists, traditional and religious leaders, as well as representatives of private-sector tech and telecommunication firms. The event is expected to include public pledges, digital-safety workshops, community dialogues and a youth-led online-campaign component.
Why This Matters
Malawi’s decision to centre the 2025 campaign on digital gender-based violence comes at a time when data from local studies indicate a rising prevalence of cyber-violence against women and girls. One survey highlighted malicious online behaviour such as cyber-bullying, online defamation, revenge pornography and harassment via WhatsApp or social media in Malawi. arXiv
Moreover, aligning the campaign with the global UN-run 16 Days initiative ensures that Malawi remains part of a broader international movement tying together gender-based violence and human-rights violations. The initiative symbolically runs from International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (25 November) to Human Rights Day (10 December). Women Lawyers Association of Malawi+1
Looking Ahead
As the launch approaches, key themes to watch include:
-
How Malawi’s digital-safety and cyber-regulation frameworks respond to this thematic shift.
-
The role of private-sector partners (telecommunications & tech platforms) in supporting prevention of digital GBV.
-
Engagement of youth and digital natives in shaping peer-to-peer campaigns and online activism.
-
Implementation of community-level interventions that link offline gender-based violence with its digital counterpart.
-
Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the impact of the campaign — especially in reporting, prosecution, and survivor support in the digital domain.
Nigerians in Diaspora Awards – Malawi | 3rd Edition
Join us for a night of excellence, culture, and celebration as we honour outstanding Nigerians making waves in Malawi and beyond!
📅 Date: Saturday, June 14th, 2025
🕕 Red Carpet: 6:00 PM
📍 Venue: Golden Peacock Hotel, Lilongwe
🎤 With special appearance by H.E. Ibrahim A. Miringa – Acting High Commissioner of Nigeria to Malawi
🎙 Hosted by Mr. Stanley Egeonu – President of the Nigerian Community in Malawi
✨ Highlights:
• Red Carpet & Media Spotlight
• Cultural Performances & Fashion
• Inspiring Keynote Speakers
• Prestigious Awards
• Fine Dining, Live Entertainment & More!
📲 Powered by Afrinity TV
Let’s celebrate the diaspora in style! 💚
AFRINITY LOVE AFFAIRS
Get ready for an amazing experience as “Love Affairs” premieres this Monday, November 11th, 2024!
Join the captivating Fannie David as she dives deep into the world of love and relationships. This is the show you’ve been waiting for!
Tune in every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday on AfrinityTv platforms at 7 PM Malawian time. Don’t miss out on the excitement!
Shocking: Opposition Leader Demands President Chakwera Reveal Truth Behind Vice-President’s Mysterious Plane Crash!
Opposition leader George Chaponda in Malawi has urged President Lazarus Chakwera to make public the findings of the investigation into the June 10, 2024, plane crash that tragically claimed the lives of Vice-President Saulos Chilima and eight others. Chaponda’s appeal follows a widely circulated interview indicating that German experts had already handed over their investigative report to the Malawian government. However, the First Deputy Speaker advised Chaponda to adhere to parliamentary protocols if he wishes to formally address the matter in the legislative assembly.
Source: Nation Publications Limited
AfrinityTv launches new website to evolutionize user experience.
AfrinityTV is proud to announce the launch of its new website, designed to revolutionize how viewers engage with our content. The fresh, modern design and enhanced functionality provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for users, reaffirming AfrinityTV’s commitment to delivering top-quality entertainment and information.
Our new website, AfrinityTV.com, features a sleek, intuitive interface that allows users to easily navigate through our extensive library of shows, news, and special features. The enhanced search functionality ensures that viewers can quickly find their favorite programs or discover new content that matches their interests.
Key features of the new AfrinityTV website include:
User-Friendly Design: The website’s clean and intuitive layout makes it easy for users of all ages to find and enjoy content.
High-Quality Streaming: Improved streaming capabilities provide viewers with a smooth, buffer-free experience, whether they are watching live broadcasts or catching up on missed episodes.
Mobile Optimization: The website is fully optimized for mobile devices, ensuring that viewers can access AfrinityTV’s content on the go, anytime, and anywhere.
Interactive Features: New interactive elements, such as viewer polls, feedback forms, and social media integration, allow for greater engagement and community building.
Comprehensive Program Guide: An updated program guide with detailed descriptions and schedules helps viewers plan their viewing and never miss an episode.
“We are excited to unveil our new website, which represents a significant leap forward in our digital presence,” said a spokesperson for AfrinityTV. “Our goal is to create a platform that not only showcases our diverse range of programming but also enhances the overall viewing experience. We believe the new features and improvements will resonate with our audience and keep them coming back for more.”
The launch of AfrinityTV.com is a testament to our dedication to innovation and viewer satisfaction. As we continue to expand our content offerings, we invite all our viewers to explore the new website and discover the exciting features it has to offer.
Visit AfrinityTV.com today and experience the future of television viewing.
May 17 in African History: Birth of Leaders, Democratic Milestones, and the Fight for Rights
May 17 marks several pivotal moments in African history, showcasing the continent’s diverse cultural, political, and social heritage. This day has witnessed events that have shaped the political landscape, commemorated cultural milestones, and marked significant moments in the struggle for independence and social justice. Here are some key events from various years on this day:
1. The Birth of Nigerian Political Leader Goodluck Jonathan (1957)
On May 17, 1957, Goodluck Jonathan was born in Otuoke, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Jonathan served as the President of Nigeria from 2010 to 2015. He initially came into office as Acting President in 2010 following the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and was subsequently elected in the 2011 presidential election. His tenure was marked by efforts to combat corruption, improve infrastructure, and manage economic challenges, though it was also marred by controversies and security issues, particularly with the rise of Boko Haram insurgency.
2. Malawi General Elections (1994)
May 17, 1994, was a historic day for Malawi as it held its first multi-party elections after decades of one-party rule under President Hastings Kamuzu Banda. The elections marked a significant step towards democracy in Malawi, with Bakili Muluzi of the United Democratic Front (UDF) emerging victorious, ending Banda’s 31-year rule. This transition paved the way for democratic governance and political pluralism in the country.
3. Zimbabwe Constitutional Referendum (2000)
On May 17, 2000, Zimbabwe held a significant constitutional referendum. The proposed new constitution was designed to expand presidential powers and enable the expropriation of white-owned land without compensation. However, the referendum was rejected by the majority of Zimbabwean voters, dealing a blow to President Robert Mugabe’s government. This event was a precursor to the controversial and often violent land reform program that followed, significantly impacting Zimbabwe’s political and economic landscape.
4. Death of Julius Nyerere (1999)
While not on May 17 itself, it’s noteworthy to remember that Julius Nyerere, the founding father and first President of Tanzania, was commemorated for his contributions around this time. Nyerere passed away on October 14, 1999, but his legacy is often recalled during significant anniversaries. Nyerere, who led Tanzania from 1961 to 1985, was instrumental in advocating for African socialism and the policy of Ujamaa, which aimed to build a self-reliant and equitable society.
5. Commemoration of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOT)
May 17 is also globally recognized as the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia. In various African countries, this day is observed with events and activities aimed at raising awareness about the discrimination and violence faced by the LGBTQ+ community. In recent years, there has been a growing movement across the continent to advocate for the rights and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals, though challenges remain due to prevailing social and legal barriers.
Conclusion
May 17 in African history is a reflection of the continent’s ongoing journey through political transformation, social justice, and cultural remembrance. From the birth of influential leaders to significant political milestones and the global fight for human rights, this day encapsulates diverse narratives that contribute to the rich tapestry of Africa’s historical and contemporary landscape.
Unveiling the Significance of April 17 in African History: A Journey Through Key Events
April 17 marks a significant day in African history, characterized by pivotal moments that have shaped the continent’s trajectory. From political milestones to cultural celebrations, this date holds deep significance for various African nations and their people. In this article, we embark on a journey through time to explore some of the noteworthy events that have occurred on April 17, shedding light on their impact and relevance.
1. The Founding of Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU):
On April 17, 1963, the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU) was founded in Tanzania. ZANU played a crucial role in the liberation struggle against colonial rule in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). Led by iconic figures such as Robert Mugabe, ZANU advocated for the rights of Black Zimbabweans and ultimately contributed to the country’s independence in 1980.
2. Malawi Celebrates Independence:
April 17, 1964, marks a historic day for Malawi, as the country gained independence from British colonial rule. Following decades of struggle and resistance, Malawi emerged as a sovereign nation, ushering in a new era of self-governance and national identity. Independence Day remains a significant annual celebration, commemorating the courage and resilience of the Malawian people.
3. World Hemophilia Day:
While not exclusive to Africa, April 17 is also recognized as World Hemophilia Day, an occasion aimed at raising awareness about hemophilia and other bleeding disorders. In many African countries, access to adequate healthcare for individuals with hemophilia remains a challenge. Efforts to improve diagnosis, treatment, and support for patients are essential in addressing this issue and promoting health equity across the continent.
4. Environmental Conservation Efforts in Rwanda:
On April 17, 2010, Rwanda made history by becoming the first country in the world to ban plastic bags. This bold initiative, aimed at combating environmental degradation and promoting sustainable practices, underscored Rwanda’s commitment to conservation and environmental stewardship. The ban on plastic bags has since been credited with significantly reducing pollution and preserving Rwanda’s natural beauty.
April 17 stands as a day of remembrance, celebration, and advocacy in African history. From the struggle for independence to the ongoing fight for environmental preservation and healthcare access, the events of this day reflect the resilience and determination of the African people. As we commemorate these milestones, let us honor the past while working towards a brighter and more prosperous future for all.
Breaking: Afrinity connect live with Adams
On the 6th of July 2020 Mr Wilfried Adams will be doing a special coverage of the Malawi presidential inauguration of His Excellency Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera president of the republic of Malawi via the platform of Afrinity connect live with Adams
D5 Creation