By Kingsley Jassi:
Tourism revenue grew to K1 trillion in 2025 from just over K865 billion in the previous year, a remarkable surge that sets the sector on the trajectory towards national strategic goal. The growth, according to the 2025 Annual Report, has been driven by increased domestic travels and new investments that reached K80 billion in the year under review.
“Investments are expected to expand further as projects outlined in the Malawi National Investment Masterplan continue to be promoted to both domestic and international investors, positioning tourism as a strategic pillar for sustainable development,” reads the report.
The trend shows continued resilience of domestic tourism expenditure which expanded substantially from K323.8 billion in 2020 to K776.6 billion in 2024. However, the sector continues to chase the 10 percent GDP contribution target with a number of infrastructure projects in the pipeline.
Department of Tourism spokesperson Joseph Nkosi hailed progress at one of the key projects, the development of Salima Integrated Tourism Lakeshore resort at Maganga, saying the pace registered speaks to aspirations.
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The $43 million project is designed to transform Senga Bay into a premier lakeshore resort with a 100 room hotel, a 1,000 seat conference center, a golf course, and a casino.
According to Nkosi, the 17 hectare land was already secured with a 70 meter beachfront as the Treasury has already provided K500 million for the costs of architectural designs, a fiscal commitment that has reignited excitement. “Our priority is to ensure the site is fully investor-ready. We are currently focused on completing the necessary preparations to facilitate these potential investments,” he said. The project is being developed under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) framework and according to PPP Commission, Patrick Kabambe, there are investors waiting for a feasibility study being prepared to be conducted.
“We have already developed terms of reference for the feasibility study and have been submitted to the government for approval,” he said. Tourism is among the top priority sectors with great potential to support higher growth and the current fiscal commitment on the Salima project gives hope for implementation of the long overdue project.
