Southern African Trade and Connectivity Project (Malawi)
Malawi, January 13, 2025 – The annual SATCP Workplan and Budget Development Workshop commenced today, bringing together dedicated stakeholders from the project for a crucial five-day meeting aimed at shaping the direction for the upcoming financial year.
Opening the workshop, Mr. John Bosco Phiri, Director of Planning in the Ministry of Transport expressed profound gratitude for the commitment of participants, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving the project’s ambitious goals. “Your unwavering commitment to the success of this project is always valued and appreciated,” he stated, highlighting the tradition of coming together each financial year to develop work plans and budgets.
As Malawi approaches the 2025/26 financial year, the project finds itself at a critical juncture. “This year represents a pivotal point. We must not only demonstrate tangible intermediate results but also ensure our progress aligns with the overall aspirations and objectives of this project,” he noted
Mr. Phiri stressed the importance of active engagement during discussions, encouraging participants to challenge budgeting assumptions and collaboratively refine plans that would propel progress
In light of current challenges, including economic instability and political turmoil in Mozambique—an essential partner in implementation—the project’s adaptability has become a focal point. Malawi acknowledges the impact of these circumstances, recalling the postponement of key meetings due to the situation in Mozambique
Concluding the first day, there was an air of optimism. “By the end of this meeting, I have firm belief and expectation that we will have collectively developed a budget that not only builds on the solid foundation we have laid over the past four years but also aligns with our project’s goals, delivers value for money, and is forward-looking,” he asserted.
As discussions continue, stakeholders remain hopeful that collaborative efforts will lead to a fruitful outcome for the SATCP, ensuring the future of sustainable agricultural development in Malawi