Lusaka –President Lazarus Chakwera has once again proven why he is the man to beat in the September 2025 elections. Acting fast and with clear direction, the Chakwera government has stopped a growing cement price crisis, giving quick relief to ordinary Malawians and warning those who try to sabotage the economy: their time is up.
The President’s running mate and Minister of Trade and Industry, Vitumbiko Mumba, explained step-by-step how the government acted under Chakwera’s guidance:
“They asked for a 10% surcharge on imported cement so that we promote the Buy Malawi Strategy. The Chakwera government obliged.
They asked for a 10.5% guiding value on imported cement so that we promote the Buy Malawi Strategy. The Chakwera government obliged.
They asked us to restrict the importation of cement and selectively issue import licences. The Chakwera government obliged.
They asked us to even make sure that those who import cement have a letter from local producers confirming they cannot source the product locally. The Chakwera government obliged.
With all the above, what really do they want?”
Mumba accused some businesses of raising prices to influence the election. “You raise cement prices at will just because you want to influence the outcome of the elections. Be reminded that the Chakwera-led government does not entertain cartels. Chakwera protects vulnerable Malawians,” he said.
Under direct instructions from the President, Malawian officials met Zambian trade leaders in Lusaka only 30 minutes before the announcement. The result: a special reduced price per tonne for imported cement, which will now be cheaper than before prices went up.
With the help of Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and his Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Chipoka Mulenga, the first 12,000 bags of cement are already on the way to Malawi. They are expected to arrive today or tomorrow.
“Quarry producers, you are next,” Mumba warned. “As for the economic sabotage, we will deal with you accordingly — and we are coming in hot, hot, hot!”
Political analysts say this is more than a cement deal — it is a big win for Chakwera’s campaign. Just weeks after announcing his running mate, the President has shown he can solve problems fast, protect the poor, and fight powerful interest groups.
For the opposition, this is a hard reality: while they are still planning, Chakwera is delivering. And in politics, as the old saying goes, “the one who strikes first, strikes twice.” Many in the opposition camp may now be asking themselves if the battle for State House is already lost before it has even begun.
