By Burnett Munthali
At the 7th African Union–European Union Summit held in Luanda, Angola, Right Honourable Justice Dr Jane Mayemu Ansah S.C., J.A. (Rtd), Vice President of the Republic of Malawi, delivered a statement on behalf of His Excellency Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, President of Malawi.
In her address, she reaffirmed Malawi’s commitment to a strong and future-focused AU–EU partnership, which has already delivered tangible results over the past twenty-five years.
She emphasised that Malawi remains dedicated to making this partnership more effective and better aligned with the objectives of the AU–EU Joint Vision 2030.
Vice President Ansah recognised the progress achieved in the partnership, highlighting milestones gained through the Global Gateway Investment package.
For Malawi, she underscored, the foundation of sustainable growth and prosperity continues to rest on agriculture and export-led industrialisation.
Guided by the National Export Strategy, Malawi has successfully established export value chains in macadamia, soybean oil cake, sunflower, rubber, cashew nuts, coffee and other produce.
These value chains, she noted, are central to Malawi’s participation in regional and global markets.
However, Vice President Ansah pointed out, Malawi’s ability to compete in these markets depends critically on its connectivity to the wider world.
She expressed appreciation for the twelve corridors prioritised under the Global Gateway initiative, while stressing that the Nacala Development Corridor remains Malawi’s primary link to international markets.
According to the Vice President, this corridor is the most cost-effective route for agricultural and mining exports, as well as for importing equipment necessary for mining, manufacturing and the commercialisation of agriculture.
She emphasised that this infrastructure is essential for achieving the prosperity Malawi aspires to.
Vice President Ansah confirmed that the government will continue actively seeking investors to support the development of the Nacala Corridor.
She further highlighted Malawi’s role in the global green transition, noting that the country possesses critical raw materials essential for green technology.
The Vice President stated that Malawi is advancing responsible mining practices to ensure benefits for both Malawians and investors.
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