As Malawi celebrates 62 years of political independence, President Arthur Peter Mutharika says the country’s next and most important battle is achieving economic independence that can transform the lives of ordinary citizens.
In a major policy shift, Mutharika announced that this year’s Independence Day celebrations will be limited to prayers, with public funds initially budgeted for the event redirected to economically productive areas aimed at reducing poverty.
In his Independence Day message, President Mutharika announced that this year’s commemorations will be limited to prayers, saying the country must prioritise economic recovery over ceremonial celebrations.
The Malawi leader directed that all public money budgeted for Independence Day festivities be channelled towards “economically productive areas” to help reduce poverty, which he said has worsened over the past five years.
“I direct that all public financial resources that were budgeted for the Independence Day Celebrations should be redirected towards economically productive areas to reduce poverty that has deepened over the last five years,” said Mutharika.
Mutharika said while Malawi celebrates the freedom won through unity and sacrifice, the country’s next major challenge is achieving economic independence that delivers shared prosperity for all citizens.
“Our mission is not yet complete the next frontier is economic independence. In line with this aspiration, this year’s Independence Day will be commemorated differently by observing prayers only,” he added.
He called on Malawians to unite behind the government’s development agenda, expressing confidence that the country can create jobs, attract investment, increase foreign exchange earnings and build a stronger economy despite global economic and political challenges.
The President also maintained that his administration is working to create conditions for sustained economic growth, saying food security remains under control and macroeconomic stability is gradually taking root as Malawi pursues long-term prosperity.
