N

ational Planning Commission (NPC) has expressed concern over the slow pace of the country’s socio-economic development, saying this could affect the implementation of Malawi 2063 (MW2063), the country’s long-term development strategy.

NPC board chairperson Richard Mkandawire said this on Monday in Lilongwe during the launch of Malawi 2063 Champions Recognition Programme and the unveiling of the first group of inter-generation development champions.

Mkandawire (R) and Munthali during
the meeting in Lilongwe

He said lack of speed was apparent in most of decision-making processes, especially in the implementation of the development plans.

“We have to run and stop walking because we have a lot of catching up to do. Africa is rising and we have to make sure Malawi is among countries in the frontline in the continent development,” said Mkandawire.

He said that Malawi does not have the luxury of time, but it has what it takes to deliver on its aspirations.

Mkandawire said there is need to have champions that would inspire the country to run to meet the set goals of Malawi 2063, the country’s long-term development strategy.

He said in view of this, NPC has started identifying and recognising champions of MW2063.

Mkandawire said these champions are basically a group of patriotic Malawians that have or are passionately taking the country in the right direction by intensively popularising long-term development planning.

“We celebrate such Malawians and hope others can be inspired and take ownership in the implementation of our country’s vision,” he said.

Mkandawire said the programme will recognise the significant role that individuals or institutions are playing towards attainment of the aspirations of an inclusively wealthy and self-reliant nation as espoused in the MW2063.

In his remarks, NPC director general, Thomas Chataghalala Munthali said that the country cannot afford the luxury of time if it is to attain a lower middle-income status by 2033 and attain the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

He said this will require the country to run and not to walk as it is the case now.

NPC has recognised over 50 individuals, including politicians, traditional leaders, journalists, musicians, civil society leaders, business captains, farmers and social media influencers, among others.

The commission plans to hold the event annually during National Development Conference.

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