To help intensify the development aspirations of an inclusively and self-reliant nation, Malawi has launched the second Multidimensional Poverty Index (M-MPI) Report, which provides comprehensive measurements and crucial insights into the specific areas in which poverty persists in the country.

The report was produced by the National Statistical Office (NSO), Department of Economic Planning and Development, National Planning Commission (NPC), and the University of Malawi, with technical and financial support from UNDP Malawi.

The Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Hon. Sosten Gwengwe and UNDP Resident Representative, Fenella Frost presided over the launch, that took place in Lilongwe.

In his official remarks, the Guest of Honor, Honorable Gwengwe reiterated on the importance of the report in providing crucial insights to help tailor immediate and longer-term strategies and investments to ensure maximum impact.

“As we launch the second M-MPI today, it is essential that we reflect on the significance of this moment which symbolizes our collective determination to uplift the lives of fellow Malawians, empower the marginalized and create an environment where every individual can thrive,” said Hon Gwengwe.

The M-MPI Report comprises of four dimensions, namely, Health and Population, Education, Environment and Work. In its key findings, the report presents that 58.8 percent of individuals in Malawi are multidimensionally poor.

The report also acknowledged the increasing frequency and intensity of shocks faced by Malawi including the recent Cyclone Freddy, Covid-19 pandemic, geopolitical conflict in Ukraine and other pre-existing structural imbalances, as some of the challenges that continue to derail the country’s progress towards achieving sustainable and inclusive growth.

In her speech, the UNDP Resident Representative Fenella Frost pledged on the commitment and support of UNDP to continue working with the Government in supporting the implementation of the key recommendations in the report.

She said, “UNDP, as a champion of the human development approach, views the Multi-Poverty Index as a tool to measure and provide a comprehensive assessment of the extent of poverty and deprivation. We therefore call on the Government, with the support of the development partners to endeavor to implement the recommendations in this report.”

The M-MPI Report is set to complement the monetary poverty measure in the assessment of the Sustainable Development Goals key progress indicators  and the implementation of Malawi’s national development priorities.

The launch event was patronized by over 70 key stakeholders from various sectors including government departments, CSOs, academia, private sector, development partners, media, and others.

Download report here