President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has announced that his government is set to procure 200,000 metric tons of maize from Zambia as part of efforts to address Malawi’s immediate challenges in food security, forex shortages, fertiliser supply, and fuel availability.
Speaking during a meeting with Scottish First Minister John Swinney on Monday at Sanjika Palace in Blantyre, President Mutharika said government officials are finalising financial arrangements to facilitate the importation of the maize.
The President added that his administration is working tirelessly to source fertiliser from reputable suppliers “not butcheries,” he emphasized while underscoring the importance of investing in mining, manufacturing, production, and value addition as sustainable solutions to the country’s economic challenges.
He further highlighted ongoing projects in the energy sector, including power interconnections, though he noted that limited financial resources remain a key obstacle.
First Minister Swinney said his visit to Malawi was aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries, building on two decades of cooperation. He stated that the partnership will focus on inclusive education, health, equality, renewable energy, and economic justice, emphasising the need for an innovative and forward-looking collaboration.
Minister of Foreign Affairs George Chaponda commended President Mutharika for articulating both short-term and long-term measures to stabilise the country. He also expressed gratitude to the Scottish Government for its continued support in sectors such as education and health.
“…We are pleased to learn that apart from the usual areas of cooperation, the Scottish Government is willing to extend further support,” Chaponda said.
The Scottish First Minister arrived in Malawi on Friday for an official visit, during which he held bilateral talks with senior government officials and toured various projects supported by the Scottish Government. He departed for Scotland on Monday through Bakili Muluzi International Airport.
