31/07/2026
Economic Freedom Movement Decries Malawi’s Deepening Socio-Economic Crisis
By Draxon Maloya
Mzuzu, July 30, 2026 — The Economic Freedom Movement (EFM) has issued a scathing press statement highlighting what it describes as Malawi’s unresolved socio-economic challenges, accusing government leaders of neglecting the plight of ordinary citizens.
The organization warns that youth, women, and marginalized groups remain excluded from opportunities, while corruption and poor governance continue to erode public trust.
EFM President Willie Precious Chikopa highlighted that Malawians are asking themselves whether this nation is truly safe and secure, where the youth and women can enjoy their rights without sweating for basic needs.
Chikopa lamented the lack of access to affordable loans, technical skills, and fair job opportunities, accusing politicians of enriching themselves at the expense of taxpayers.
The movement singled out the collapse in education, noting that despite promises of free primary and secondary schooling, implementation remains crippled by poor funding, inadequate teaching materials, and unsafe learning environments.
“EFM strongly rebuked the recent hike in university tuition fees charges of over one million Kwacha per semester as ‘laughable and ridiculous.’ We demanded an immediate downward adjustment to make higher education accessible to farming families and disadvantaged youths,” reads part of the statement.
On employment and empowerment, EFM blasted the government’s failure to expand technical training and loan disbursement.
“We also urge the authorities to establish technical colleges even in prisons so that skills impartation would help rehabilitated citizens contribute to national development.
“Loan disbursement must target mobilized youths and women with qualifications who remain jobless due to lack of government investment,” the movement stressed.
The health sector was also condemned for dwindling services, with allegations of drug theft, poor monitoring systems, and inadequate medical equipment. EFM warned that ordinary Malawians are left vulnerable to deadly diseases such as diabetes and heart failure, with no means to seek treatment abroad. The organization called for urgent reforms to restore accountability and strengthen healthcare delivery.
On agriculture, it described as “nose-diving,” remains another flashpoint, accusing government of failing to subsidize farm inputs, leaving fertilizers and seeds at exorbitant prices. The group warned of looming hunger and starvation if decisive action is not taken. “We will support any initiative that encourages fertilizer production locally,” Chikopa emphasized, urging mechanization and industrialization of farming to employ more youths and women.
EFM reiterated its commitment to dialogue but warned against “cosmetic politics.” Insisting that government must urgently address the grievances raised by Malawians or risk losing public confidence. “We believe in dialogue, but we don’t condone cosmetic politics,” Chikopa declared, calling for genuine reforms to rescue the nation from economic decline.
