Finance Minister Simplex Chithyola praised for restoring EU budget support to Malawi – Malawi Nyasa Times

Finance Minister Simplex Chithyola is receiving praise for his pivotal role in resuming budget support from the European Union (EU) after a 12-year hiatus.

The EU’s renewed commitment, announced this week, includes a €55 million program to improve secondary education services in Malawi.

The EU suspended its budget support in 2012 due to concerns over the Cashgate scandal, a major corruption scandal that led to the looting of public resources.

Chithyola’s leadership and dedication to tax reform has been instrumental in restoring confidence in Malawi’s financial management systems, paving the way for this important support.

Chithyola has expressed the need for transparency and accountability in government institutions. Its efforts have included implementing reforms that align with international standards, which have drawn positive attention from development partners. The minister welcomed the EU’s decision, stressing that it reflects renewed confidence in Malawi’s institutions.

“This budget support program will improve the quality of education and strengthen our adherence to the revised Public Finance Management Act,” Chithyola stated during a recent press conference. He stressed the importance of this funding to ease pressure on the national budget and allow the government to focus on critical areas of spending.

Chithyola’s proactive approach has been instrumental in addressing the structural challenges facing Malawi’s economy. In collaboration with the EU and other development partners, he has worked to ensure that funds are effectively allocated to meet the needs of the Malawian people, especially the youth.

EU Ambassador to Malawi Rune Skinnebach echoed this sentiment, saying the resumption of budget support is a testament to the progress made under Chithyola’s leadership.

“This agreement symbolizes renewed collaboration and commitment to shared goals of stability and inclusive development,” he said.

In light of this success, Chithyola has urged other development partners to follow the EU’s example and resume their budget support to Malawi.

He noted that the government is committed to using resources wisely to drive significant improvements in education and other key sectors.

As Malawi looks forward to this new phase of partnership with the EU, Chithyola’s efforts are being hailed as a critical step in restoring international trust and fostering sustainable development in the country.

Finance Minister Simplex Chithyola’s successful negotiations with the EU to resume budget support mark a turning point for Malawi. His commitment to reform and accountability has not only restored vital funding, but also strengthened the nation’s commitment to improving the lives of its citizens.

With this support, Malawi is poised to make significant advances in education and public finance management, ultimately leading to better opportunities for all Malawians.

Follow and subscribe to Nyasa TV:

Sharing is caring!