President Lazarus Chakwera has declared Malawi’s shift to mandatory cashless tax systems within five years, calling it a decisive step toward modernizing revenue collection and securing national development.

Speaking Wednesday at the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA)’s 25th anniversary gala in Lilongwe, Chakwera said: “The era of manual tax payments must end. Digital collection is faster, more secure, and leaves no room for leakage or corruption.”

Chakwera added: “Every kwacha paid in taxes is a building block for roads, schools, and hospitals—we cannot afford to lose a single one."

According to Chakwera, the reforms aim to boost efficiency, curb revenue losses, and increase transparency, noting that digitization will ensure taxes directly fund infrastructure and public services.  

MRA Board Chairperson Vizenge Kumwenda welcomed the move, revealing: “Our existing digital platforms already outperform manual systems, helping us exceed revenue targets. Full digitization will take this progress further."

Kumwenda praised compliant firms, stating: “Taxpayers are true nation-builders—their contributions fuel Malawi’s growth."

As part of the celebrations, the MRA recognized consistent taxpayers, with the National Oil Company of Malawi named “Most Tax Compliant" overall. 

The event, themed “Honouring the Past, Shaping the Future,” highlighted the MRA’s push toward automation and accountability.