One of Africa’s rapidly growing commercial banks, the Malawi Stock Exchange (MSE)-listed Bank of the Nation, National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc, has partnered with the Malawi Government to help eliminate hunger in the country’s most affected regions by donating K300 million to the national food relief program.
Minister of Finance, Joseph Mwanamveka, received the donation on Tuesday and described it as the largest single contribution made so far by a financial institution toward the ongoing response. He praised the support as timely, saying it will play a critical role in safeguarding the lives of vulnerable Malawians during the lean season.
Mwanamveka said, “Today, we are not just witnessing a donation ceremony. We are reaffirming our shared commitment to protect the lives and livelihoods of Malawians most impacted by food shortages.”
The finance minister registered his appreciation on behalf of President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, the government, and the people of Malawi, applauding the NBM Board, management, and staff for what he described as a “generous and impactful contribution.”
In his remarks during the handover, NBM Board Chairperson Dr. Grant Kabango reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting national development and humanitarian efforts.
“As National Bank of Malawi, we stand shoulder to shoulder with the Government and the people of Malawi to ensure that no Malawian goes to bed hungry,” said Dr. Kabango.
Added Dr. Kabango: “Our success as a bank is inseparable from the well-being of the communities we serve. When communities thrive, we thrive; and when they face challenges, it is our moral and social duty to act.”
He highlighted that the involvement in the fight against the pangs of hunger is a key demonstration of NBM’s belief in corporate citizenship as a core part of its identity and national responsibility.
Said Dr. Kabango: “Our support today is not merely charity, but a continued investment in a resilient and food-secure Malawi.”
Malawi continues to grapple with climate change-induced shocks that threaten food security and economic stability.
The 2025/2026 Lean Season Food Insecurity Response Programme is estimated to require K209.4 billion (approximately USD 119.59 million) to support food distribution and cash transfers to vulnerable households.
The programme was first launched in Machinga on November 1, 2025, and has since rolled out to Neno and Salima, with the Northern Region launch set to follow soon.
“Today, we are not just witnessing a donation ceremony. We are reaffirming our shared commitment to protect lives ”
Joseph Mwanamveka
Malawi’s Finance Minister
