Following President Lazarus Chakwera’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on February 14, 2025, Malawi is currently facing a significant controversy that has cast doubt on the public’s trust in its leadership and governance sparked by the SONA misrepresentations.
In his address (downloadable here), President Chakwera presented an ambitious array of development initiatives aimed at transforming various sectors across the nation, from agriculture to infrastructure.
However, in the days that followed, investigations conducted by local media outlets have unearthed alarming discrepancies, revealing that some projects touted by the President either do not exist or are substantially misrepresented in terms of their scope and progress.
This revelation has ignited a widespread national debate, leading critics from both the political opposition and civil society to vehemently accuse the government of deceiving the Malawian populace through the SONA misrepresentations.
Such claims suggest a deliberate attempt to manipulate public perception and inflate the administration’s achievements, thus eroding the integrity of the SONA itself.
Various stakeholders, including journalists, activists, and everyday citizens, have voiced their outrage, demanding accountability and transparency from their leaders.
As the Malawi Spotlight team analyses this unfolding situation, it becomes crucial to not only dissect the specific SONA misrepresentations but also to explore the implications of these revelations on public trust and governance in Malawi.
This controversy serves as a poignant reminder of the fundamental need for honesty in leadership and the serious consequences that stem from undermining that trust.
The lessons that Malawi must learn from these SONA misrepresentations are multifaceted and highlight the importance of truthful communication and the responsibility leaders have in presenting an accurate picture of their achievements to the nation.
The SONA Misrepresentations: What Went Wrong?
President Chakwera’s SONA was meant to be a comprehensive report on the progress made during his first term in office.
However, investigations by media outlets such as Malawi24, Nyasa Times, and Capital FM reveal that several claims in the speech do not hold up to scrutiny.
False Claims and Non-Existent Projects
One of the most glaring SONA misrepresentations was the claim that the Ilola Irrigation Scheme in Karonga had been “resurrected.”
According to Malawi24, Steven Simsokwe, Executive Director of Karonga Youths for Justice and Development, dismissed this claim, stating that the project is “dead” and exists only on paper.
Similarly, the President’s assertion that the Karonga Airport had been upgraded to accommodate international flights was debunked, with Simsokwe pointing out that the airport is primarily used by officials from the Kayerekera Uranium Mine.
In Rumphi, the President highlighted the completion of the Kamphenda Health Centre and the Rumphi-Nyika-Chitipa road. However, Nyasa Times reported that these projects remain incomplete, with locals expressing frustration over the lack of progress.
These revelations have led to widespread public outcry, with political analyst Thomas Chirwa calling for a ministerial shake-up, stating, “These ministers should be the first to go. Their failure to perform and provide accurate information has contributed to the president’s missteps” (Malawi24).
The Youth Engagement Debacle
To clarify the SONA, President Chakwera engaged with youth representatives at the State House. However, this event was widely criticised as “staged” and “fake” (Malawi24).
Attendees reported that the questions posed to the President were pre-selected and did not reflect the pressing issues facing young Malawians.
Praise Umali, a renowned artist at the event, lamented, “…we have way more pressing questions than [what] has been presented towards the president.” (Malawi24).
Reactions to the SONA: A Nation Divided
The SONA misrepresentations have elicited strong reactions from various quarters, including opposition leaders, civil society, and the general public.
Opposition and Civil Society Outcry
Leader of the Opposition Dr. George Chaponda described the SONA as “empty and full of lies” (Malawi24).
Political scientist Dr. George Phiri echoed this sentiment, stating, “A nation does not develop with lies” (Nyasa Times). He criticised the government for exaggerating achievements and failing to address Malawians’ real challenges.
The Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR) also weighed in, with Executive Director Michael Kaiyatsa describing the SONA as a “missed opportunity” to address socio-economic challenges (Capital FM).
Public Disillusionment
The public reaction has been one of disillusionment and anger. In Karonga, youths expressed outrage, labeling the SONA a “mockery” (Malawi24).
Similar sentiments were echoed in other districts, with many Malawians questioning the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
What Should Have Been Done Differently?
The controversy related to the SONA misrepresentations highlights a failure of due diligence on the part of the President’s team. To prevent such embarrassments in the future, several measures should be taken.
Ensuring Accuracy and Accountability
The President’s team Should have rigorously verified every claim presented in the SONA to ensure that each statement is backed by solid evidence.
This process should have involved a thorough collaboration with various line ministries and local authorities, which is crucial for collecting precise and reliable data regarding the progress of ongoing projects.
By engaging with these entities, the team can obtain comprehensive insights and statistics that highlight the current status of the government’s initiatives, thus enhancing the credibility of the Address.
Second, the government should establish an independent audit mechanism to verify the claims made in the SONA. As Dr. Phiri suggested, independent audits should be conducted “to verify the claims made in the SONA and expose any discrepancies” (Nyasa Times).
Engaging the Public Authentically
In a bid to provide clarity on his State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Chakwera welcomed a diverse group of spirited youth representatives to the majestic State House, an emblem of political significance in Malawi.
The atmosphere was charged with excitement as the young leaders shared their ideas and concerns.
However, the event was met with immediate backlash from critics, who dismissed it as a carefully orchestrated performance, labelling it “staged” and “fake.”
This scepticism raised questions about the genuineness of the engagement and its true impact on the nation’s youth (Malawi24).
In our considered view, the Malawi Spotlight team believe the youth engagement event was a missed opportunity to connect with young Malawians. Future engagements should be more inclusive and transparent, allowing for genuine dialogue and addressing real concerns.
Acknowledging Genuine Achievements
“Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” – Vincent Van Gogh.
While the controversy surrounding President Chakwera’s SONA has dominated headlines, it’s crucial to acknowledge the real strides highlighted in the address. These initiatives, if nurtured and scaled, have the potential to be game changers in Malawi’s development.
Given that the speech spans 100-plus pages, it’s clear that the list of accomplishments is extensive, by a thousand miles.
Rather than echoing the entire SONA, we at Malawi Spotlight have handpicked eight standout achievements—based on no other criteria than pure consensus—that we believe hold the greatest promise for the nation’s progress.
Infrastructure and Economic Development
1. National Aquatic Complex and Griffin Saenda Indoor Sports Complex
The construction of the National Aquatic Complex and the Griffin Saenda Indoor Sports Complex, which are 63% and 80% complete respectively, are significant milestones for Malawi’s sports infrastructure.
These facilities hosted the African Union Region 5 Youth Games in December 2022 and are expected to boost sports tourism, create jobs, and provide world-class training facilities for Malawian athletes.
For a country with limited sports infrastructure, these complexes represent a leap forward in nurturing talent and promoting Malawi on the international stage.
2. Salima-Lilongwe Water Supply Project
Although it has progressed at the snail’s pace so far, characterised by one excuse after another over the years, the Salima-Lilongwe Water Supply Project can be a game-changer as far as the socio-economic development is concerned in Malawi.
This critical infrastructure initiative aims to provide clean water to over 1.5 million people in Salima, Dowa, Ntchisi, and Lilongwe.
Access to clean water is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of public health. This project will not only improve the quality of life for millions but also support agricultural and industrial activities, which are vital for economic growth.
Youth Empowerment and Education
3. Malawi Youth Games
The Malawi Youth Games, a national programme involving primary and secondary schools, identified 2,000 talented athletes out of 20,000 participants.
This initiative is crucial for nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for youth to excel in sports.
The success of Salima Secondary School’s football team, which won gold in the African Schools Football Championship, is a testament to the programme’s potential.
Such initiatives are essential for keeping youth engaged, reducing unemployment, and fostering national pride.
4. Construction of Community Day Secondary Schools
The government has constructed numerous Community Day Secondary Schools across the country, including in districts like Chitipa, Karonga, and Nkhata Bay.
Education is the bedrock of development, and these schools are helping to bridge the gap in access to quality education, particularly in rural areas.
By improving literacy rates and equipping young Malawians with skills, these schools are laying the foundation for a more prosperous future.
Energy and Rural Electrification
5. Malawi Rural Electrification Programme (MAREP) and Solar Home Systems
The government has connected thousands of households to electricity through MAREP and off-grid solar initiatives.
Access to electricity is a catalyst for development, enabling businesses to operate more efficiently, improving educational outcomes, and enhancing quality of life.
In rural areas, where electrification rates are low, these projects are transformative, providing opportunities for economic activities that were previously impossible.
6. Kapichira Hydropower Station Rehabilitation
The rehabilitation of the Kapichira Hydropower Station is a critical step toward addressing Malawi’s energy crisis.
Reliable electricity is essential for industrial growth, and the restoration of this facility will help reduce blackouts, support businesses, and improve the overall quality of life for Malawians.
Energy security is a cornerstone of economic development, and this project is a significant step in the right direction.
Health and Social Services
7. Construction of Health Posts and Recruitment of Medical Personnel
The government has constructed numerous health posts across the country and recruited thousands of medical personnel.
Access to healthcare is a fundamental right, and these initiatives are helping to reduce the burden on existing facilities, particularly in rural areas. Improved healthcare services lead to a healthier workforce, which is essential for economic productivity and development.
8. Social Cash Transfers and Climate Smart Cash Programmes
The government’s social cash transfer programs, including Climate Smart Cash, have provided financial support to vulnerable households affected by climate change and economic shocks.
These programs are crucial for poverty alleviation and social protection, ensuring that the most vulnerable members of society are not left behind.
By providing a safety net, these initiatives contribute to social stability and economic resilience.
Why These Achievements Matter
The selected achievements are crucial for Malawi’s development for several reasons:
- Economic Growth: A project like the Salima-Lilongwe Water Supply Project has the potential to boost livelihoods and better health outcomes and stimulating economic growth.
- Youth Empowerment: Initiatives like the Malawi Youth Games and the construction of Community Day Secondary Schools are essential for nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and athletes.
- Public Health: Improved healthcare infrastructure and access to clean water are fundamental to achieving better health outcomes, which in turn support economic productivity.
- Energy Security: Reliable electricity is a prerequisite for industrial development and improved quality of life, making projects like the Kapichira Hydropower Station rehabilitation vital.
- Social Protection: Programmes like social cash transfers provide a safety net for vulnerable populations, reducing inequality and promoting social cohesion.
Lessons for Malawi: A Reflection on Work Ethic
The controversy surrounding the SONA misrepresentation serves as a reflection of a broader, systemic issue in Malawi: a persistent lack of due diligence and an all-too leisurely approach to work that significantly hampers progress across various sectors.
The Need for a Cultural Shift
As political analyst Thomas Chirwa noted, “This is the time for Chakwera to prove that he can make decisions on his own by firing all his ministers and advisers for providing him with incorrect information” (Malawi24).
This statement underscores the need for accountability and a cultural shift in how Malawians approach work generally.
Building a Culture of Excellence
Malawi must strive to build a robust culture of excellence, where due diligence, transparency, and accountability are consistently prioritised in all levels of governance, public service, and community engagement.
This requires not only strong political will but also a collective and concerted effort from all sectors of society, including government, businesses, and local communities.
Final Thoughts on SONA Misrepresentations
President Chakwera’s 2025 SONA has sparked a national conversation about governance, transparency, and accountability. While the misrepresentations have undermined public trust, they also present an opportunity for reflection and reform.
If we can all commit to addressing the shortcomings highlighted in this analysis, led especially by those in political leadership, the government can restore credibility and ensure that future SONAs are a true reflection of Malawi’s progress.
As we approach the September 2025 elections, it is imperative that Malawians demand better from their leaders. Only through a collective commitment to excellence can we overcome the challenges that have held our nation back and build a brighter future for all.
This analysis serves as a reminder that the path to development is paved with honesty, diligence, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Let us learn from this spectacle and strive to do better, for the sake of our nation and future generations.
