The Ministry of Finance has confirmed that an International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation will arrive tomorrow, Thursday 22 May 2025 for the diagnostic review of the mainstay activities of the economies of Malawi.

Ministry spokesperson, Williams Banda says the mission will focus on monitoring and consultations with the public and private sector on the economic status of the country. 

He says the officials will also visit several developmental projects that shape the country’s economy including schools, hospitals and others.

“Several stakeholders including journalists, civil society and several institutions are expected to be engaged during this IMF economic review visit,” said Banda.

“This is only part of IMF programmes and policies in which after completing the mission, they will come up with a homegrown framework that will be presented to their board in order to see how Malawi’s economy can recover,” he added.

Economics Association of Malawi President, Bertha Bangala Chikadza says this is in line with Article 4 of the IMF’s articles of agreement.

Chikadza says it is the mandate of the IMF to hold such talks with different countries across the world so as to discuss economic policies and situations.

“Whether the economy is underperforming or not, the IMF would still come to the country, as this is in line with Article 4 of the IMF’s policies. I think this will be ideal for Malawi as it will get advice on its economic performance and policies,” said Bangala.

However, an economist, Sam Chiwaula says continued implementation of foreign economic policies is what is putting the country in economic turmoil.

“I would prefer the economic policies were home tailored than being foreign tailored. I doubt if this visit will help this country. We should think of the needs of this country rather than accepting everything that is imposed on us,” argued Chiwaula.