Written by: Qusay Ahmed

The government has returned Malawi Reaffirming its commitment to supporting journalists and promoting press freedom in the country, as part of the celebration of World Press Freedom Day 2026, and the Media Awards ceremony organized by MISA Malawi, which was held at the Sunbird Livingstonia Hotel in the Salima area on Sunday.

The Malawian government reaffirms its commitment to supporting press freedom and strengthening partnerships with the media.

During his speech at the event, Malawi’s Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Dr. Shadrick Namalumba, said that the decision of the President of the Republic, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, to assign him to attend the event reflects the great importance that the current government attaches to the media sector and its role in society.

Namalumba explained that the President’s initiative is clear evidence of his government’s commitment to supporting the media and working collaboratively with it, noting that the executive branch views the media as a key partner in the national development process.

The minister added that the head of state affirmed his continued commitment to supporting journalists, and that the media will not be alone, indicating the continuation of government support for the media sector in various circumstances.

Namalumba also stressed that the government recognizes the vital role played by a free and independent media in promoting national development, emphasizing that press freedom is a fundamental pillar in supporting human rights, economic growth, and promoting peace and stability in the country.

Official confirmation of strengthening press freedom in Malawi

He said the government is doing everything it can to promote press freedom and ensure a safe and open media environment, noting the importance of continued cooperation between the state and media institutions to achieve common goals.

For his part, the head of MISA Malawi, Golden Matunga, praised the government's efforts to improve the media work environment in the country, while stressing the need to strengthen the ongoing dialogue between the authorities and the media in order to consolidate press freedom.

Matunga said: “We hope that this initiative will represent the beginning of a new culture, based on direct, regular and informal communication with the press,” noting the importance of building bridges of trust between the media and the government.

He also thanked President Professor Mutharika for his support of the event, as he made a financial contribution of 10 million Malawian Kwacha to support the organization of the event, which he considered a positive indication of the state’s support for the media sector.

This celebration comes in the context of national efforts to promote freedom of expression and media development, amid ongoing calls from professional organizations for further reforms that guarantee the independence of the press and support its oversight role in society.