Change at Malawi Investment and Trade Centre

Since September 2021, Africa RISE has been working with the Malawi Investment and Trade Centre (MITC) to develop its strategy and improve practices to transform it into a third-generation investment and trade promotion agency. MITC was established in 2012 and is intended to have a key role in implementing the government’s Medium-Term Development and Growth Strategy and National Export Strategy.  MITC has, however, been facing difficulties at both operational and institutional level that have been preventing it from fulfilling its mandate. In addition, collaboration with other agencies has proved challenging.  

Africa RISE assembled a team of experts with extensive experience in investment and trade, change management and the political economy of Malawi. In the first phase of the project, the team carried out a comprehensive diagnosis of MITC, interviewing both MITC staff and external stakeholders across Malawi. The diagnosis reviewed the strengths and weaknesses of MITC, and assessed the mandate, leadership, direction and funding of the organisation. It also assessed overall strategy, internal management processes and organisational culture. The final aspect of the diagnosis covered the relationships of MITC with other agencies. 

Following the presentation of the diagnostic findings and brainstorming sessions with the MITC Board of Directors, the Africa RISE team proposed a number of changes to improve performance: 

  • A stronger focus on effective facilitation;  
  • Improved aftercare to nurture investors who are already operating in the country;  
  • Reviewing in greater detail the internal operation of MITC. 

A programme of technical assistance to implement these changes is now in preparation to bring MITC up to the level of some of the best performing agencies internationally.