As the world commemorates October 17th as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, key Buy Malawi Strategy stakeholders have recognized the initiative as pivotal in tackling poverty in Malawi.

UNDP Resident Representative a.i. Claire Media commended the strides taken so far in mobilising the private sector to ensure that quality products and services are produced for local and international consumption.

She said such efforts have the potential to ensure a thriving economy which will translate into the creation of more jobs.

“Recent targeted initiatives for companies on the use of the gazetted Buy Malawian, Build Malawi logo as a mark of quality, and supermarkets’ involvement in stocking Malawian products, are raising hope for the effective implementation of the strategy,” said Medina. “Eradicating poverty requires that all sectors work together in creating possibilities for every citizen.”

Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI) President Prince Kapondamgaga said effective implementation of the Buy Malawi Strategy will require that both public and private sectors move in one direction.

“We are partners in development. Government alone cannot eradicate poverty just as the private sector can’t work alone. It is important that together we ensure that the Strategy is effectively implemented,” said Kapondamgaga who also chairs the BMS steering committee.

Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism Wiskes Mkombezi concurred, emphasizing that government will continue providing a conducive environment for the private sector to thrive to create more jobs and help in reducing poverty in Malawi.

“There is no way Malawi will reduce poverty if many people cannot find employment. The Buy Malawi Strategy is one way of ensuring that the country achieves self-sustenance which is key to poverty reduction,” said Mkombezi.

The Buy Malawi Strategy is encouraging local enterprises and people resident in Malawi to increase production and consumption of locally produced goods and services to create jobs, increase the tax base and increase forex reserves.

The Buy Malawi Strategy is critical if Malawi is to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 Promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment and decent work for all and 9 Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.

This year’s International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is commemorated under the theme: “Coming together with those furthest behind to build an inclusive world of universal respect for human rights and dignity”