Malawi, EU Leaders Seek Investment to Boost Economic Growth
The forum comes as the EU resumes direct budgetary support to Malawi, signalling renewed confidence in the country's economic potential.
LILONGWE, Malawi — President Lazarus Chakwera opened the first Malawi-European Union Investment Forum on Tuesday, seeking to attract European investment in agriculture, tourism and mining, writes Winston Mwale.
"The forum presents a unique opportunity for European nations to invest in Malawi's key sectors," Chakwera said during the opening at the Bingu International Convention Centre.
The three-day event aims to strengthen economic partnerships between Malawi and EU member states.
Rune Skinnebach, EU ambassador to Malawi, said the forum aligns with the EU's Global Gateway Strategy.
"We aim to unlock investment opportunities that promote sustainable, inclusive growth," Skinnebach said.
Three key agreements were signed, including a grant to improve energy policy, an implementation agreement for financial management and a financing commitment for agricultural commercialization.
Myriam Ferran, deputy director-general for international partnerships at the European Commission, emphasized the partnership's broader goals.
"Our collaboration is rooted in shared values of human rights and sustainable development," she said.
The forum comes as the EU resumes direct budgetary support to Malawi, signalling renewed confidence in the country's economic potential.
Over the next two days, EU policymakers and investors will explore market entry strategies and investment opportunities across Malawi's priority sectors.
Chakwera stressed that these partnerships are designed to create lasting economic benefits for local communities, positioning the forum as a critical step in Malawi's economic transformation.