President Banda engages DCs on poverty eradication strategy
President Mrs. Joyce Banda and District Commissioners (DCs) were on Wednesday locked up in a meeting aimed at finding lasting solutions that would help end poverty in the country.
The meeting which was held at the New State House in Lilongwe also included Chief Executive Officers for the City Councils.
Speaking prior to the meeting which was held in camera, the President said for the past 25 years, there was nothing tangible to improve the economic status of Malawians.
“I called this meeting to discuss operations of some programmes we are carrying out. Further to that, you know I cannot eradicate poverty without the involvement of you (District Commissioners).
“These people present here will offer solutions and best ways on how we can improve our economic status and achieve our intended goals,” the President said, adding that she will not sit idle at the State House and just watch people suffering.
The President said despite introducing various programmes such as the food distribution and subsidy programmes, the fight against poverty has not been succeeded.
Banda then described the meeting with the DCs as important as it would bring out best ways that could boost the economy of the country.
The President said: “This government has no room to rest; we will not sit down while Malawians are in troubles.”
The President reminded the DCs that though she ascended to power at a crucial time, she will try her best and ensure that the country brings back the economy to normal.
“The International Monetary Fund (IMF) had a meeting last week and they have told us that for the past 25 years we have done nothing to help the poor and improve our income. But let me assure Malawians that I’m working hard and ready to fight poverty,” she explained.
Speaking to members of the press after the discussion, Minister of Local Government, Grace Maseko said the President also discussed with the DCs about the cash transfer programmes, public works programmes and the Presidential Initiative on Hunger and Poverty Reduction.
This is the first time President Banda has met the District Commissioners since she ascended to power on April 7, 2012 following the demise of Bingu wa Mutharika who died of cardiac arrest on April 5, 2012.
