Following a 30% devaluation of the kwacha currency against the dollar last week, Malawi is taking steps to regulate foreign currency transactions, aiming to stabilize its economic situation.
Finance Minister Simplex Chithyola Banda announced on Monday that the country would impose restrictions on foreign currency transactions and intensify efforts against black market dealers. The devaluation was deemed necessary to address supply-demand imbalances in the currency market.
Effective immediately, cash sales of foreign currency by banks and authorized dealers will be capped at $2,000, Minister Banda revealed during a press conference. To ensure compliance, police and other security agencies have been tasked with prosecuting black market forex dealers.
In addition to these measures, Malawi faced concerns of mismanagement and corruption, as an investigative audit of COVID-19 fund spending uncovered alarming findings. Despite citizen unrest and planned protests in response to the devaluation, Banda defended the move, asserting that it would rejuvenate local production and attract foreign investment.
To mitigate the impact on the most vulnerable, Malawi is in talks with the World Bank and other donors to increase grants for the Social Cash Transfer Programme (SCTP) scheme. Negotiations with trade unions are also underway to raise salaries.
This marks the second substantial devaluation of the Malawian currency in recent years, following a similar move in May 2022. The earlier devaluation was prompted by diminishing foreign currency reserves, exacerbated by escalating commodity prices and reduced revenue from tobacco exports.
Despite the criticism and citizen discontent, Minister Banda remains steadfast in the belief that the devaluation is a crucial step towards economic revitalization and increased foreign investment. Meanwhile, the nation prepares for potential unrest amid the challenging economic adjustments.
Photo (africabusinessradio.com)
By: Montel Kamau
Serrari Financial Analyst
13th November, 2023
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