Malawi launches technology needs assessment to strengthen science, technology and innovation agenda
Date: 2026-05-13
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Malawi
has officially launched its Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) in Lilongwe,
marking a key step in strengthening the country’s science, technology, and
innovation framework in support of national development priorities.
The
launch event, convened under the guidance of the UN Technology Bank for the
Least Developed Countries, brought together government officials, development
partners, and stakeholders to discuss how technology can be leveraged to
accelerate Malawi’s long-term development agenda.
Opening
remarks were delivered by Dr. George Vakusi, Deputy Director for Science,
Technology and Innovation, who welcomed participants and emphasized the
importance of science, technology, and innovation as central drivers of
national development and economic transformation.
He
was followed by Hon. Francis Foley, Deputy Minister of Education, Science and
Technology, who reaffirmed government commitment to evidence-based planning
under Malawi 2063. He underscored the role of the Technology Needs Assessment
in identifying priority gaps and opportunities across key sectors including
agriculture, energy, ICT, and mining.
The
assessment is expected to support Malawi in aligning technological priorities
with development goals while strengthening institutional capacity for
innovation-led growth.
