President Chakwera Stresses Productivity as Solution to Malawi's Economic Woes

LILONGWE, Malawi - President Lazarus Chakwera emphasized that aid from development partners and the government alone cannot save Malawi from its economic problems, but rather productivity is the only sustainable solution during his speech at the official opening of this year's tobacco selling season at Lilongwe selling floors on Wednesday, writes Rosalia Kapiri, MANA.

"We must do everything possible to support these tobacco farmers and increase productivity. The government will only support those who do the work and not just the consumers," said Chakwera, highlighting the importance of increasing tobacco production to boost the country's economy.

Chakwera further commended the Tobacco Control Commission for implementing irrigation schemes in tobacco farming and appealed to stakeholders to support tobacco farmers by buying tobacco at fair and reasonable prices.

"Tobacco farmers are the ones holding the economy of the country together and making it possible to gain forex. There is a need to continually increase in quantity and quality of which provides a win-win situation on the market," explained Chakwera, emphasizing the pivotal role of tobacco farming in Malawi's economy.

In addition, President Chakwera warned against the use of child labour in tobacco farms, stating that those using minors will face consequences as it is a crime.

Speaking during the occasion, Minister of Agriculture, Sam Kawale, emphasized that the opening of the tobacco market season is a time for farmers to reap what they sow. He also announced that there will be more sales of tobacco this year as new tobacco-buying companies enter the market.

"We have increased the buying prices of cash crops, including tobacco. Anyone found exploiting farmers by buying tobacco at unreasonably low prices will be arrested," said Kawale, underscoring the government's commitment to protecting farmers from exploitation.

Traditional Authority for the area, T/A Chitukula, also emphasized the need to keep tobacco prices in check from time to time, as they tend to drop in the weeks following the opening of the tobacco market season.

The theme for this year's tobacco sales season is "Sustainable Tobacco Production, Key to Our Economy," highlighting the importance of sustainable agricultural practices for Malawi's economic growth.

With President Chakwera's emphasis on productivity and support for tobacco farmers, Malawi aims to overcome its economic challenges and foster sustainable economic growth in the years to come.