As the cost of living rises and retirement security becomes a growing concern, a pension conference next month is expected to spark reforms that could strengthen how Malawians save, invest, and retire with dignity.
Organized by Old Mutual Pension Services under the guidance of the Registrar of Financial Institutions, the high-level gathering, scheduled for 6th to 8th November 2025 at Sunbird Nkopola Lodge in Mangochi, will bring together policymakers, fund managers, pension trustees, and regulators to shape the future of Malawi’s pension systems under the theme “Shaping the Future of Pensions: Resilience, Sustainability, and Innovation.”
Tawonga Manda, the Institution’s General Manager says this year’s event is designed to drive real change by focusing on practical solutions that improve the lives of ordinary workers. The company believes that the discussions will help create systems that are inclusive, transparent, and sustainable, ensuring that Malawians can retire with confidence and stability.
“We are in an era that demands forward-thinking and sustainable pension systems. The summit will focus on how we can make Malawi’s pension sector more resilient, innovative, and responsive to the needs of both current and future retirees,” Manda said.
Among the expected outcomes are stronger regulatory frameworks, more sustainable investment strategies, and improved governance structures to safeguard contributors’ savings. Experts say such reforms will not only stabilize the pension sector but also boost public trust and long-term financial security.
Key sessions such as “Landscaping for Future Reforms” by Kaluso Chihana of the Reserve Bank of Malawi, and “Sustainable and Impactful Investing” by Mphatso Kasalika, will highlight how pension funds can balance growth with environmental and social responsibility. Other sessions on crisis management, governance, and innovation will provide practical lessons to strengthen the resilience of Malawi’s pension sector.
Beyond the technical discussions, the conference will create space for collaboration and shared learning across Africa, with speakers like Stephen Walker (South Africa) and Prosper Matiashe (Zimbabwe) sharing insights on regional best practices, helping Malawi adapt global lessons to its own context.
