Malawi has become the sixth African country to launch a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAP-BHR), joining Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Liberia and Ghana in strengthening responsible business practices and promoting the protection of human rights.
The landmark plan, developed through extensive multisectoral consultations and a National Baseline Assessment, was officially launched by the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Charles Mhango, on October 29, 2026, at Sunbird Capital Hotel in Lilongwe.
Speaking during the launch, Mhango disclosed that the Plan had received the endorsement of President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, describing the development as a clear demonstration of the Government’s commitment to responsible business conduct and human rights protection.
“The endorsement sends a clear message, at home and abroad, that responsible business conduct is a national priority for Malawi, and that the Government stands fully behind this plan,” said Mhango.
Solicitor General and Secretary for Justice, Gertrude Lynn Hiwa, SC, commended stakeholders for their contributions towards developing the Plan, while emphasising the importance of sustained collaboration to ensure its commitments translate into tangible results.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative, Fenella Frost, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting the implementation process through technical and financial assistance.
“UNDP is proud to have partnered with the Government throughout this process, providing technical and financial support towards the development of a nationally owned framework for responsible business conduct,” said Frost.
Meanwhile, Malawi Human Rights Commission Executive Secretary, Habiba Osman, observed that although business activities are central to Malawi’s development aspirations, they must be accompanied by adequate safeguards to prevent human rights violations.
She particularly highlighted the need to strengthen the protection of labour rights and the environment, pledging the Commission’s support in monitoring implementation, investigating complaints and providing guidance to businesses on their human rights responsibilities.
Speaking on behalf of civil society organisations and workers, Charles Kajoloweka called for adequate financing, stronger legal protections and effective remedies to ensure that the Plan moves beyond commitments on paper.
“Honourable Minister, the document is done. The real work begins now. A mid-term review is promised in the third year, and workers and communities will measure this Plan by what has changed by then,” said Kajoloweka.
Professor Redson Edward Kapindu, the consultant who led the development of the Plan, also stressed that its launch should mark the beginning of concrete interventions, practical action and measurable outcomes rather than simply celebrating the completion of the document.
On the private sector’s commitment, Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI) representative, Dr Peter Matipwiri, reaffirmed the organisation’s readiness to play an active role in ensuring the Plan’s successful implementation.
Matipwiri disclosed that MCCCI had already taken steps towards positioning itself as the secretariat for the Private Sector Business and Human Rights Platform.
“We will promote awareness, encourage responsible practices, facilitate dialogue and contribute to monitoring progress,” he said.
The launch concluded with Minister Mhango handing over copies of the National Action Plan to representatives of participating stakeholder groups, symbolising their collective responsibility and commitment to its implementation.
The launch marks an important milestone in Malawi’s efforts to ensure that economic development and business activities are conducted responsibly, with respect for human rights, workers’ welfare, environmental sustainability and the rule of law.
However, stakeholders have emphasised that the Plan’s success will ultimately depend on adequate resources, effective coordination, accountability and the willingness of both government and the private sector to translate its commitments into meaningful change.
Editorial note: The article is structured for an online news platform, with the strongest development leading the story and stakeholder contributions presented in a logical sequence.
