Malawi reforms fail to survive government changes
Eliya Zulu of Afidep says policy decisions are driven by short-term political interests, undermining development.
Economic reforms in Malawi are failing to survive government changes, according to Eliya Zulu, executive director of the African Institute for Development Policy (Afidep). Speaking at the Economics Association of Malawi (Ecama) 2026 Annual Economic Conference in Mangochi, Zulu stated that the lack of reform continuity weakens institutional memory and hinders long-term development.
Zulu noted that Malawi struggles economically despite having sound development strategies and qualified public servants, attributing this to policy decisions driven by short-term political interests and frequent changes in senior officials. Patrick Kabambe, Principal Secretary for Economic Planning and Development, also acknowledged institutional weaknesses affecting implementation.
The World Bank presented a mixed rating, stating that while Malawi shows signs of economic recovery with easing inflation, gains remain fragile and growth is projected to lag behind the sub-Saharan African average due to persistent macroeconomic challenges and external pressures.
Why it mattersMalawians are affected by the failure to implement consistent economic reforms, which hinders long-term development and economic stability.