Mips indaba discusses MSMEs empowerment
invest in them
By Kondwani Mhone:
Malawi needs to be systematic in creating an environment that would facilitate growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and see their input to the national economy surge.
This was the general message at a two-day Malawi Institute of Procurement and Supply (Mips) conference held at Sunbird Nkopola in Mangochi District.
The indaba, held under the theme ‘Unlocking the Growth of MSMEs: Legal and Financial Challenges under the Microscope’, attracted procurement and supply professionals and experts from several disciplines.
Gracing the occasion was High Court Judge Zione Ntaba, called for concerted efforts in creating an environment that would facilitate growth of the industry.
“We need to invest in the micro, small and medium enterprises because they are catalysts for growth of the economy.
“It is necessary that we create a conducive environment, legally, financially, economically and socially for them to work in the country and work towards growth and development of their businesses,” Ntaba said.
Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Director General, Ellias Housi, said the office was working with stakeholders in crafting a legal framework aimed at empowering MSMEs in the country.
“We are very supportive. As of now we have two legislations, one which deals with empowering indigenous black Malawians and the other one empowering SMEs, which goes further in empowering marginalised people like youth, women and people with disabilities,” he said.
Mips President, Alinafe Malisewa, said procurement professionals were best positioned to contribute to the growth of MSMEs, hence the theme of the conference.
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