MZUZU, Malawi — The United Nations has warned that economic hardship, youth unemployment and climate change shocks are putting pressure on Malawi’s long-standing peace and stability, writes Tionge Hara.
Speaking in Mzuzu on Monday, Sept. 21, 2026, during the commemoration of the International Day of Peace, UN Resident Coordinator in Malawi Rebecca Adda-Donto called for increased investment to address socio-economic challenges that could undermine national stability.
This year’s commemoration was held under the theme, “Empowering Youths as Agents of Peace, Unity, and Socio-Economic Transformation.”
Peace Requires Economic Stability
Adda-Donto commended Malawians for maintaining peaceful coexistence across cultural, religious and political differences but cautioned that peace cannot be sustained without addressing economic challenges.
“Malawi should be very proud because this country has peace; this is not something that happens by accident,” Adda-Donto said.
“However, this peace is threatened by challenges arising from climate change and unemployment. There is a need for more investment to reduce the impact so that the existing peace becomes meaningful,” she said.
Addressing Inequality
Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Moses Chimphepo said economic hardship continues to widen the gap between wealthy and poorer communities.
He urged local leaders to prioritise community projects under the Reformed Constituency Development Fund (CDF) that directly address pressing challenges facing their communities.
“Local leaders must take a leading role in ensuring that developments implemented under the Reformed CDF directly target and resolve critical challenges within their districts,” Chimphepo said.
Youth At The Centre
The focus on youth came as unemployment remains a major concern for young people, with stakeholders stressing the importance of involving them in community development and decision-making.
The International Day of Peace commemoration provided a platform for stakeholders to highlight the role of young people in promoting peace, unity and socio-economic transformation.
The discussions also underscored the importance of combining local accountability with investment in climate resilience and economic opportunities as Malawi seeks to preserve its record of peaceful coexistence.