One area is showing progress, but others are still weighing down Malawians, as the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) delivers mixed marks on President Peter Mutharika’s first year in office.
In its assessment of the period from October 4, 2025, to October 4, 2026, the commission found food security to be the strongest-performing area, while foreign-exchange shortages and the high cost of living remain major concerns.
CCJP scored food security 5 out of 6, crediting favourable rains for boosting maize production and helping to bring prices down.
However, the commission warned that some areas still face the risk of food insecurity, meaning the improved harvest has not eliminated the threat of hunger across the country.
On inflation and the cost of living, the government scored 3 out of 6, with CCJP observing that despite a decline in inflation, high fuel and electricity costs continue to squeeze household budgets.
Foreign-exchange availability emerged as one of the weakest areas, scoring 2 out of 6.
The commission attributed the low score to persistent shortages of foreign currency, which continue to affect the importation of essential goods.
The findings highlight the challenge facing the government as it enters its second year, with progress in food production yet to be matched by sufficient relief from economic pressures affecting households and businesses.
For Year Two, CCJP has urged the government to prioritise foreign-exchange availability, restore reliable electricity supply and intensify the fight against corruption.
It has also called for greater protection of food security and education, more job opportunities and improvements in public services.
Overall, the commission gave the government an estimated score of 4 out of 6, describing its performance as “Good”.