By Cathy Maulidi:

As Malawi faces a critical moment in its economic journey, President Lazarus Chakwera’s upcoming State of the Nation Address (Sona) on Friday could prove to be a defining moment in the nation’s battle against a worsening economic crisis.

With the country grappling with soaring inflation, crippling fuel shortages and the suspension of aid by the United States (US), the pressure on Chakwera to provide more than just words is growing.

Citizens and experts alike are eager for concrete plans, clear timelines and a roadmap for recovery in what could be his most consequential address to date.

From the departure of the US Agency for International Development (USaid) to faltering economic strategies, the challenges are urgent.

Economic experts, such as Velli Nyirongo, are hoping for updates on key initiatives like the Agriculture, Tourism and Mining (ATM) strategy and the Malawi 2063 development blueprint.

Others, such as chairperson of the Human Rights Defenders Coalition Gift Trapence, are calling for more than just rhetoric.

As the President prepares to take centre stage, one thing is certain: the nation’s future hinges on his words—and, more importantly, the actions that follow.

“I expect the President to address economic recovery and development. He is likely to provide an update on the [ATM] strategy, which he believes will drive economic growth.

“He may also discuss progress on implementing the Malawi 2063 development blueprint and outline measures to tackle ongoing economic challenges, including inflation,” Nyirongo said in an interview.

He anticipates that the President will address the fuel crisis, which he believes will be a key topic.

“Malawians want details on the ‘government-to-government’ fuel purchase deal and the potential outcomes of his visit to the United Arab Emirates.

“President Chakwera is expected to inspire confidence and hope while acknowledging the challenges the country faces. Most importantly, Malawians want to hear strategies for dealing with the aftermath of USaid’s departure,” Nyirongo added.

However, words alone will not suffice, according to Trapence.

Emphasising the dire state of the economy, high inflation and persistent fuel shortages, Trapence believes the President’s Sona must go beyond mere speeches.

“HRDC demands concrete plans with specific timeframes for economic recovery, debt and austerity measures, public service reforms, strategies for domestic health sector funding and measures to protect the poor,” he said.

Echoing these concerns, chairperson of the National