Malawi President Hails Progress Despite Year of Loss, Climate Challenges
Facing widespread food insecurity, the government mobilised K300 billion in emergency aid for 5.7 million citizens affected by El Niño-related crop failures.
LILONGWE, Malawi — In a nation grappling with natural disasters and political tragedy, President Lazarus Chakwera marked New Year's Day with a measured assessment of Malawi's resilience during a turbulent 2024, writes Winston Mwale.
"Despite external attempts to promote political violence and tribal discrimination, the unity and resilience displayed by Malawians throughout the year stand strong," Chakwera said in his annual address to the nation.
The president highlighted a historic milestone in the country's infrastructure development: the first international train arrival in two decades.
But triumph mixed with tragedy as he acknowledged the deaths of former Vice President Saulos Chilima and eight others in an event that shook the nation's political establishment.
Facing widespread food insecurity, the government mobilised K300 billion in emergency aid for 5.7 million citizens affected by El Niño-related crop failures.
The administration also allocated K200 million toward local development projects, resulting in new district offices, bridges, and police stations.
"The restoration of donor confidence has led to the return of budgetary support after a decade," Chakwera said, pointing to reforms in financial management that have attracted international backing.
The president cited economic stabilisation efforts, including controlled inflation and a declining consumer price index, as evidence of progress.
Public sector workers, including teachers and security forces, received promotions and wage increases, while new housing projects for security personnel were initiated.
Looking toward the 2025 general elections, Chakwera noted that seven million citizens have registered to vote, describing the process as "peaceful and inclusive."
The year's challenges extended beyond politics, as severe weather and El Niño conditions devastated crops across the southern African nation.
Yet Chakwera's administration responded with various support programs, including social cash transfers, fertilizer assistance, and collateral-free loans.
"While we faced significant hardships in 2024, our response demonstrates the resilience and unity of the Malawian people," Chakwera said, setting an optimistic tone for the coming election year.
Meanwhile, in a move that signals preparation for the upcoming election season, Chakwera appointed a new 31-member cabinet, including Michael Usi as Vice President and Minister of State for Public Service Delivery.
The reshuffled cabinet features 12 women in key positions, with Monica Chang'anamuno heading Defence and Nancy Tembo leading Foreign Affairs.