Malawi’s President Bans Self, Cabinet Members From All International Travels In A Bid To Save Money For Country

MALAWIAN president Lazarus Chakwera has placed a total ban on foreign travel for all cabinet members including himself.

The president disclosed this during a televised address on Thursday, 16 November. 

The measure follows a huge devaluation of the currency as Malawi secures a loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to boost its ailing economy.

Mr Chakwera has also ordered all ministers currently abroad to return home.

Also, Fuel allowances for senior government officials have been cut by 50%.

Malawi’s economy has been undergoing turbulent times, characterised by an acute shortage of petrol and diesel, as well as high inflation.

Mr Chakwera said the measures would remain in place until the end of the financial year in March 2024.

As part of moves to ease the cost-of-living crisis, the president has asked the finance minister to make provisions for a reasonable wage increase for all civil servants in the next budget review.

He has also ordered a lowering of income tax on individuals in the upcoming budget, to help workers whose incomes have lost value.

Eighteen-Eleven Media