President Peter Mutharika has conceded that although his government is committed to set the foundation of weaning the country from aid dependence the dream will not be possible without pro-growth support from institutions like the African Development Bank (AfDB).
Speaking during an audience with AfDB president Akinwumi Adesina at Sanjika Palace in Blantyre Tuesday, Mutharika pleaded with the Bank to continue providing support to Malawi as the government continues to implement Public Financial and Economic Management Reforms, and Public Service Reforms.
“I believe you are aware that the Malawi Government is implementing two major reforms: Public Financial and Economic Management Reforms, and Public Service Reforms. This is a commitment my government has undertaken in order to improve efficiency in service delivery for the benefit of the people of Malawi.
“I would like to request the Bank, through you Sir, to continue providing support to the Government of Malawi as we continue implementing the reforms. I want to assure you of my government’s commitment to change the lives of our people once and for all. We are facing many challenges, but they will become our opportunities,” Mutharika said.
While informing the delegation that Malawi is experiencing the food challenges, Mutharika said it is the government’s intention to break the cycle of food insecurity with a belief that irrigation will help.
“I therefore invite the Bank to partner with us by, not only bringing the much needed resources on the table, but ideas too. Of course, I am aware that the Bank is already interested in this area,” he said.
He said AfDB remains one of the most important development partners for Malawi and has been a friend indeed since the establishment of the development cooperation between the Bank and Malawi in June 1969 with the Bank’s portfolio in Malawi valued at over US$1 billion.
Adesina said using its five priority areas, known as high five, which include energy sector development under light Africa, feed Africa, industrialise Africa, integrate Africa and improve quality of life, the Bank will continue helping Malawi’s development agenda.
He recognised and encouraged use of the three pillars of patriotism, integrity and hard work that Mutharika introduced to Malawians.
Although he congratulated Malawi for fulfilling the International Monetary Fund’s conditions, Adesina did not say much on the issue of direct budgetary support, only saying the Bank is the only donor that supported Malawi’s budget last year.
Adesina said the Bank has also increased its current Malawi portfolio from the U$310 million to U$578 million.
“We are ready to provide support in areas of regional integration, agriculture, and energy and youth development as part of our pro-growth support. In irrigation, we are ready to support your vision of turning Malawi into a food basket. Africa is blessed with a lot of natural resources including water and it is unacceptable to see its people starving,” Adesina said.
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