President Lazarus Chakwera took a fresh approach in this year’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), highlighting his administration’s achievements across Malawi, from Nsanje to Chitipa. He emphasized key initiatives such as the Affordable Input Program (AIP), Social Cash Transfer, free water and electricity connections, NEEF loans, food relief distribution, and the construction of health, education, and security facilities.
Acknowledging the nation’s hardships, Chakwera expressed optimism for recovery. He pointed out that when he took office in 2020, Malawi was burdened with a K4 billion debt, worsened by external factors like the Russia-Ukraine conflict. To stabilize the economy, his administration revised procurement laws and mandated that foreign exchange transactions go through the Reserve Bank of Malawi.
He noted that the new Finance Management Act has led to the arrest of several civil servants and recognized the suffering caused by natural disasters and currency devaluation.
On Lake Malawi, Chakwera reaffirmed that the lake belongs entirely to Malawi and should benefit its citizens. He assured that Malawi prioritizes peace and is open to negotiations with neighboring countries if disputes arise. Additionally, he revealed ambitious development plans for Likoma Island.
Before concluding, he addressed the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of his Vice President.
