On Wednesday, Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera outlined measures to address the country’s ongoing fuel crisis and food shortages, while condemning political violence.
Earlier this year, the East African nation declared a state of disaster in 23 of its 28 districts after a devastating drought wiped out crops, leaving 5.7 million people at risk of hunger. In a televised speech, Chakwera emphasized the importance of prioritizing food security but also urged citizens to support necessary “measures to cut spending.” He announced that the government would implement austerity measures in response to fiscal challenges related to the country’s growing debt.
Chakwera thanked the international community for the aid sent to mitigate the food crisis but stressed that additional support was needed. “We still have 1.2 million people waiting for assistance,” he said.
The president also addressed the prolonged fuel shortages, which have worsened over the past few weeks due to a lack of foreign exchange, disrupting fuel imports. The resulting petrol shortages have led to higher transportation costs, further inflating prices for essential goods and food in a nation where 70 percent of the population lives in extreme poverty.
Chakwera explained that the government would seek fuel supplies through bilateral agreements with other nations. “As part of this strategy, I have accepted an invitation from the President of the United Arab Emirates to discuss fuel security and other matters critical to our long-term energy needs.”
The fuel crisis sparked protests on Monday in the capital, Lilongwe, where demonstrators called for the resignation of the energy minister. The protest was violently interrupted by masked men wielding machetes and clubs, prompting police to disperse the crowd with tear gas.
Chakwera condemned these acts of political violence, including the intimidation of protesters, and urged the Malawi Police Service to investigate and hold those responsible accountable. “These actions will not benefit the country,” he said, calling for a full investigation into every incident of political violence.
Lastly, Chakwera encouraged Malawians to participate in the ongoing voter registration process ahead of the September 2025 elections. Some citizens have been hesitant to register due to concerns over the proposed electronic voting system, with opposition parties fearing it could be used to rig the election in favor of the ruling Malawi Congress Party. “Voting is your constitutional right,” Chakwera declared. “Do not surrender that right under any circumstances.”