There are expectations of stronger saving habits and improved financial discipline among Malawians in 2026, following National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc’s decision to close last year by rewarding consistent savers.
The Bank has drawn positive reactions from customers after crediting year-end interest to eligible accounts on 31st December 2025, a move many say has reinforced confidence in saving at the start of the new year.
One customer, Grace Mbewe, commenting on NBM’s Facebook announcement of the year-end interest credit, described it as a tangible reward for financial discipline that has strengthened her commitment to further increase her savings this year.
“This shows that being consistent really pays. Ending the year with interest credited into my account encourages me to save even more in 2026,” she said.
Another customer, Peter Gondwe, said the move demonstrates how banks can play a key role in building a saving culture. “When you see your savings grow, it encourages you to keep money in the bank and plan better. It builds trust and confidence,” he said.
NBM plc Marketing and Corporate Affairs Manager Akossa Hiwa said the Bank views rewarding savers as central to promoting financial growth.
“The Bank exists because of its customers. Rewarding consistent saving helps strengthen positive financial behaviour, and we remain committed to supporting our customers’ financial growth throughout 2026,” said Hiwa.
Beyond interest credits, NBM plc also demonstrated its commitment to communities through the ‘12 Days of Christmas’ initiative, part of a broader K250 million festive season package that ran from December 5 to 22, 2025.
Beneficiaries included health centers such as St. Martin’s in Mwanza, Area 25, and Chilomoni, as well as schools in Chazunda, Mpemba, Kasungu, Liwonde, and Mzuzu, and community institutions including Wells of Joy Orphan Care and the Makande Resource Centre for the visually impaired.
