In a national address delivered tonight, Wednesday, 11th December 2024 in Mzuzu, President Lazarus Chakwera has outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to address pressing issues such as food security, weather-related disasters, and economic challenges in Malawi. The address also touched on upcoming electoral participation and the importance of national unity.
Food Security Initiatives
President Chakwera emphasized the government’s proactive measures in ensuring food security amid ongoing hunger challenges. His statement revealed that over 289.5 metric tonnes of maize have been dispatched to various districts, including Chitipa, Karonga, Rumphi, Nkhatabay, Mzimba, and Likoma in the northern region with significant shipments also reaching the southern and central regions, particularly Thyolo, Mangochi, Neno, Mwanza, and Blantyre. The President assured citizens that relief efforts would continue unabated until March 2025.
Impact of Weather-Related Disasters
The President expressed concern over the recent adverse weather conditions that have affected more than 48,000 individuals across 10,000 households, resulting in 11 fatalities and 79 injuries. President Chakwera underscored the urgent need for international assistance to address the humanitarian crisis facing many Malawians.
The head of State and Government acknowledged receiving $33 million in aid from international partners, including Sweden, the USA, the UK, and Japan, facilitated through the World Food Programme.
Economic Strategies and Austerity Measures
To combat the ongoing fuel and foreign exchange crisis, Chakwera announced a Government-to-Government arrangement with the UAE aimed at securing a sustainable fuel supply. A technical team from the UAE is expected in Malawi in January 2025 to finalize negotiations.
He pointed out that the 2024 revised budget will see the removal of VAT exemptions for vehicle imports for senior government officials. The President reaffirmed his commitment to directing resources toward public welfare, particularly food security, education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Labour Export and Job Creation
President Chakwera also spoke on expanding labor export opportunities, targeting countries like Israel and the UAE. This initiative comes with the appointment of Engineer Vitumbiko Mumba as the new Minister of Labour, succeeding the resigned Agnes Nyalonje.
Encouraging Electoral Participation
As the nation prepares for the 2025 elections, President Chakwera commended Malawians for their enthusiasm in registering to vote, predicting participation numbers would exceed the 6.8 million registered voters from the last election. He praised the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) for facilitating a smooth registration process, ensuring ample opportunities for civic engagement.
Concluding his address, President Chakwera called for unity, resilience, and trust in the government’s commitment to creating a better Malawi. His assurances come as Malawians look toward addressing both immediate challenges and future opportunities in the coming year.
