First Female Agriculture Minister Sworn in

Malawi has a new minister of Agriculture, irrigation and water development, who was appointed by president Peter Mutharika on 16th October alongside the minister of Industrialization, business, trade and tourism.

The new minister of agriculture is a well-known administrator, Roza Fatch Mbilizi, this is the first time ever in Malawi’s history to have a woman at the helm of agriculture ministry which is regarded as one of key ministries.

All eyes are on her to see how she can swiftly make move to find affordable fertilizer for farmers before the rain starts and also to purchase maize as many Malawians face acute food shortage.

Speaking at Sanjka Palace in Blantyre during the swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday 20 October 2025, president Mutharika said he had appointed them with one purpose which is to help him (Mutharika) in rebuilding the country. “The oath of office you have taken today, is a solemn commitment to the people of Malawi.

” I want an all inclusive government, I want everyone to be involved in the new Malawi”- remarked Mutharika. In her remarks, the new agriculture minister promised to serve the people of Malawi with dedication and humility.

In order to solve the puzzle of bringing fertilizer and food into the country, Hon Roza Mbilizi said she will enforce good working relationship with technocrats in the ministry so that the processes can be expedited.

Before the two cabinet ministers took oath of office, 2nd vice president designate who is also Aford president, Enock Kanzingeni Chihana was sworn in. The last to take oath of office was Industrialization, business, trade and tourism minister George Partridge.

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