By Jones Gadama
The Buy Malawi Day Commemoration, held in Lilongwe, was a resounding call to action for Malawians to take ownership of their country’s economy by embracing local industries’ innovations and services.
Minister of Trade and Industry, Vitumbiko Mumba, led the charge, urging Malawians to prioritize locally made goods and services over imports.
Mumba’s remarks were a testament to the innovative spirit of Malawian entrepreneurs, who showcased their products and services during the commemoration.
“I have been amazed by the innovation I have seen today,” he said, adding that, “We are producing good products, and we would be doing a great disservice if Malawians are not in the forefront of supporting our own industries and services.”
The Minister also appealed to Malawian service providers to improve their customer care and services rendered to their customers.
This, he emphasized, was crucial in building a strong and competitive local industry.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative Fenella Frost echoed Mumba’s sentiments, stressing the need for the Buy Malawi Strategy to become a sustainable brand that doesn’t rely on investments from development partners.
“Let us not just buy Malawi products,” she said. “Let’s make sure the products are the best. Let Buy Malawi be a global brand,” she concluded.
Elizabeth Bonjesi, speaking on behalf of the Buy Malawi Strategy members, highlighted the platform’s success in providing local Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with an opportunity to showcase their products and services. “Some of the SMEs’ products have crossed borders to other countries, bringing confidence to us,” she said. “Through this strategy, we have been able to interact and learn from each other.”
The Buy Malawi Day Commemoration, which runs from 28th March to 31st March 2025, aims to raise awareness on the importance of prioritizing locally made goods and services. This year’s theme, “Innovate, Invest, and Inspire.
Buy Local; Build The Economy,” resonated throughout the event, as individuals, private businesses, and civil society organizations showcased and promoted Malawian products.
As the Minister toured the various displays, it was clear that the Buy Malawi initiative has become a catalyst for economic growth and development in Malawi.
By supporting local industries, Malawians can help reduce the country’s dependency on foreign products and strengthen its economy.
The Buy Malawi Day Commemoration was a rallying call for Malawians to take pride in their local industries and support them.
As Minister Mumba emphasized, it is time for Malawians to take ownership of their economy and build a brighter future for themselves and generations to come.
