Neef refutes social media claims on K50.8 billion disbursement

The National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF) has dismissed as false a press statement circulating on social media alleging that the institution is set to disburse K5.8 billion to 11 pastors under a K50.8 billion presidential initiative.

The document, dated June 20, 2025, has been widely shared across various platforms, sparking concern and confusion among the public.

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But NEEF says no such allocation has been made, describing the contents of the alleged statement as fabricated and misleading.

“The Fund provides financial support to all eligible Malawians including youth, women, persons with disabilities and faith-based leaders, without discrimination or political bias,” reads the statement released Friday.

NEEF emphasized that it operates under strict principles of transparency, accountability and inclusivity, and that any disbursements are made through formal and verifiable channels.

The money lending institution said it remains committed to empowering Malawians across all sectors fairly and equitably.

According to the statement, the claims were deliberately crafted to damage the Fund’s credibility and mislead the public, particularly at a time when efforts are underway to expand access to microfinance services for underserved communities.

NEEF has urged the public to ignore the viral press release and rely exclusively on its official communication platforms for verified information.

The Fund has also warned that individuals found spreading misinformation will face legal consequences in accordance with relevant laws.

Malawi has in recent years witnessed an increase in the spread of false information on social media, often targeting public institutions and high-profile government programmes.

Authorities have repeatedly warned that such acts undermine public trust and risk inciting unnecessary alarm.

Established in 2020, NEEF is a government financial institution mandated to provide inclusive access to finance for Malawians, especially those in rural and peri-urban areas.

Its loan portfolio covers small and medium enterprises, agricultural ventures, youth and women-led businesses, and special groups such as persons with disabilities.

As of March 2025, NEEF reported that it had disbursed over K120 billion in loans to more than one million beneficiaries across the country. The institution continues to roll out new financing products tailored to meet diverse community needs.