Malawi’s economy is small and largely dependent on rain-fed agriculture, with a narrow export base. Current GDP per capita of $327 is only double what it was at independence. As a result, Malawi is one of the poorest countries in the world and ranks 171 out of 189 in the Human Development Index, with 70% of the population below the ($1.90) poverty line. Weak growth, environmental degradation and limited connectivity with the region over recent decades have left the country vulnerable to climatic shocks and demographic challenges. UK aid is addressing these issues through our three priorities:

Top priorities

• Supporting Government accountability, through increasing transparency and challenging corruption.
• Breaking the cycle of humanitarian crises by increasing the resilience of poor Malawians, and making the economy more diverse and productive.
• Preparing Malawi for the future by building human capital, accelerating the demographic transition, and tackling the environmental crisis.

Further resources

FCDO Operational Plan for Malawi
Malawi page on GOV.UK website