Malawi

Real GDP growth depends largely on agriculture, which explains our bullish outlook for 2006. It is impossible to predict what next year will bring in terms of weather but, assuming... 2006-04-19

Years of poor economic management, extensive corruption (Transparency International ranked Malawi the 97th most corrupt country out of 158 covered in its most recent annual survey)... 2006-04-07

A new full IMF programme is likely, which has the potential to lead to deep debt relief next year.

The economy will continue to grow, but forecasts are vulnerable to the unpredictable effect of weather on the all-important agricultural sector. The portends are not encouraging for... 2005-01-14

President Bingu wa Mutharika, a technocrat, was plucked from political obscurity to lead the country by his predecessor, Bakili Muluzi. Mutharika holds no formal position in the ruling... 2005-01-14

A recent IMF review highlights the poor implementation capacity of the state sector. BMI View: There is an ample good-will on the part of the international community towards Malawi.... 2005-01-13

Economic performance is expected to remain mixed, although some increase in growth is possible in 2004 and 2005. However, both the budget and balance of payments situation give cause... 2004-11-11

The IMF has agreed a shadow programme for the country. BMI View: The suspension of IMF funding is reflected in a serious deterioration in the public finances. Promises of renewed... 2004-11-03

President wa Mutharika, against expectations, is proving a strong leader. BMI View: The president has a shown a willingness to take-on some serious vested interests over corruption.... 2004-11-03

The World Bank ranks Malawi 165th in the world in terms of human development. Despite vast agricultural potential, the country cannot feed itself; this year some 1.3mn people will... 2004-11-01