specifically strengthens
Malawi’s data systems
United States (US) Chargé d’Affaires Jonathan Fischer has said the K1.6 trillion memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Malawi and the US represents a significant shift towards direct budget support to the Malawi Government.
Fischer disclosed this in an exclusive interview with The Daily Times on Monday, saying, unlike some development partners who have moved away from direct government financing in favour of channelling funds through non-governmental organisations, the US has opted for a more direct engagement model under the new agreement.
“Some development partners have chosen to channel their support through NGOs but this agreement reflects our belief that direct engagement, with strong oversight and accountability mechanisms, is essential for achieving sustainable results,” Fischer said.
He acknowledged that direct budget support often raises concerns around trust and accountability but stressed that the agreement incorporates robust monitoring, evaluation and data-sharing provisions to ensure transparency and effective utilization of funds.
Fischer said concerns around data privacy were addressed through safeguards embedded in the MoU, adding that only aggregated data—not personal information—will be shared.
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“This agreement specifically strengthens Malawi’s data systems. In five years’ time, Malawian health data will be more secure than it is today because of this MOU,” he said.
According to Fischer, the data-sharing arrangements fully comply with provisions of the Malawi Data Protection Act and explicitly prohibit the sharing of personal or identifiable information.
“We need aggregated data from population groups to understand trends and outcomes. That is how we determine whether programmes are working. Without that data, it becomes much harder to ensure that money is being spent as intended,” he said.
He added that strengthening data integrity and safeguarding Malawi’s data sovereignty formed a key pillar of the agreement, alongside improved programme performance and accountability.
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Fischer said the technical complexity of the MoU required close oversight by the US government to ensure its objectives are achieved.
“This is very complicated work and that is why we will be overseeing implementation very closely to make sure the goals of the agreement are met,” he said.
Acknowledging public sensitivity around data privacy, Fischer commended the media for its role in holding institutions accountable.
“I really appreciate the role of the press in enforcing accountability, especially on issues like data privacy,” he said.
He added that concerns about whether funds under the MOU would be used effectively should be viewed in the context of te agreement’s accountability mechanisms.
“Anyone worried about accountability should welcome these provisions. Data allows us to see whether we are achieving the goals we set. Without it, ensuring proper use of funds becomes far more difficult,” Fischer said.
Economic commentator Velli Nyirongo said the new US–Malawi MoU was signalling a recalibrated approach that emphasises direct engagement paired with enhanced oversight.
“The MOU should ensure transparency and results-based monitoring,” Nyirongo said.
Minister of Finance Joseph Mwanamvekha said the MoU focuses on strengthening Malawi’s health systems and broader public sector capacity, with accountability, transparency and results-based implementation at its core.
He said the agreement signalled renewed confidence in the Malawi Government’s ability to manage and utilise public resources effectively.
