Governance and Human Rights Advocate Undule Mwakasungula has saluted President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera for taking bold and unpopular decisions to heal the Malawi economy.
Mwakasungula’s sentiments come in the wake of a recent World Bank report, which states that the Government of Malawi has achieved incredible economic results in the last three months despite concerns on macroeconomic stability and expenditure-side controls.
World Bank Regional Director for Macro, Equity, and Institutions for Africa East and South, Hassan Zaman, broke the news during a meeting with the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Simplex Chithyola Banda, in Lilongwe on Thursday.
Zaman urged the Malawi Government to narrow the gap between the official and parallel exchange rates, highlighting the importance of maximizing gains from the recently qualified International Monetary Fund (IMF) Extended Credit Facility (ECF).
Reacting to the development, Mwakasungula said it was exciting that the unpopular decision the Chakwera-led administration took to heal the economy have started to bear the much-desired fruits.
“Though various stakeholders have been speaking on government shortfalls in addressing the challenges, it is commendable to appreciate efforts being undertaken, so far. Acknowledging the government’s positive efforts should not be discouraged, especially given their constructive engagements with international organizations such as the IMF and World Bank and the resumption of essential budgetary support. This accomplishment is truly commendable and deserves recognition,” he reacted.
Mwakasungula said it was important for Malawians to recognize that the country has been facing socio-economic challenges for the past few years and that efforts President Chakwera and his government have taken reflect a proactive stance in addressing the economic challenges.
He said the implementation of the measures aimed at mitigating the effects of the challenges on the general population signifies important strides towards achieving economic stability.
“These noteworthy initiatives warrant appreciation. While acknowledging difficulties, it is crucial as a country to maintain a hopeful perspective. Highlighting above government’s actions to mitigate socio-economic challenges encourages optimism among citizens. It is essential to communicate progress and potential to overcome these challenges, thus fostering a sense of hope and resilience.
“It cannot be disputed that recognizing that the economic difficulties faced by Malawi could have been encountered by any government in power, irrespective of political affiliation, is important. This perspective helps to depoliticize the issue, focusing on solutions rather than political rhetoric,” said Malawi’s most revered governance and human rights advocate.
Mwakasungula urged Malawians to start focusing on interventions the government is undertaking to build the nation and uniting efforts across different sectors to build a stronger, more resilient Malawi.
