The Malawi Agricultural and Industrial Investment Corporation (MAIIC) plc is proudly participating in the 2025 Investing in Africa Summit (AFSIC), one of the continent’s most influential investment events taking place in London. As part of its participation, MAIIC today hosted the Malawi Investment Summit at the prestigious Park Plaza Westminster Hotel, highlighting Malawi’s vast economic potential and growing attractiveness as an investment destination.

The summit was officially opened by His Excellency Dr Thomas Bisika, Malawi High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, who delivered an inspiring keynote message under the theme “Malawi is Open to Investment.” Dr Bisika emphasised the Government of Malawi’s unwavering commitment to fostering a stable, transparent, and investor-friendly environment, positioning Malawi as a key gateway to business success in Southern Africa.

In his remarks, Dr Bisika highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business, strengthening governance, and expanding infrastructure to support trade and industrialisation. He underscored Malawi’s strategic advantages as a peaceful nation with a youthful workforce, abundant natural resources, and strong agricultural potential.

“Malawi is open to investment. Our government continues to create an enabling environment for both local and international investors to thrive,” said Dr Bisika. “We invite the global business community to be part of Malawi’s growth story through sustainable partnerships that create value and shared prosperity.”

Closing the summit, Mr Donbell Mandala, MAIIC Board Chairman, expressed gratitude to all participants for their engagement and partnership. He described MAIIC as more than a financial institution — a strategic investment platform designed to unlock capital, drive innovation, and catalyse economic transformation.

Mr Mandala underscored that MAIIC’s success depends on collaboration between the private sector, development partners, and investors who share a vision of a prosperous and resilient Malawi.

“MAIIC represents a compelling opportunity to invest in high-potential ventures with measurable returns — financial, social, and developmental,” he said. “Let today mark the beginning of deeper partnerships, bold ventures, and shared prosperity. Together, we can build a future where industries thrive and Malawi’s potential is fully realised.”

He concluded by reaffirming MAIIC’s commitment to continued engagement with investors and partners, noting that each step taken at AFSIC brings Malawi closer to unlocking transformative growth.

The Investing in Africa Summit (AFSIC) attracts senior executives, investors, and policymakers from around the world who are keen to explore business opportunities across Africa. Malawi’s active participation this year reinforces its growing presence on the global investment stage and its readiness to embrace partnerships that deliver long-term, sustainable development.

The Malawi High Commission in London continues to champion trade, investment, and tourism links between Malawi and the United Kingdom, working closely with institutions such as MAIIC to position Malawi as an emerging hub of opportunity and innovation in Africa.

The Malawi High Commission in the United Kingdom warmly welcomes the forthcoming official visit to Malawi by Scotland’s First Minister, Rt Hon John Swinney MSP, scheduled for 14–20 October 2025.

“The Scottish Government has been supporting Malawi in many areas covering both development and humanitarian support." - His Excellency Dr Thomas Bisika

This landmark visit coincides with the 20th anniversary of the Scotland–Malawi Cooperation Agreement, a partnership deeply rooted in shared values of friendship, equality, and mutual respect. It will also mark the First Minister’s first visit to Malawi since assuming office earlier this year.

“The 20-year anniversary of our overseas development programme is a landmark that we should be proud of. We have seen how working together with our partner countries to better understand their challenges can have transformative impact on communities.” - First Minister, Rt Hon John Swinney MSP

Strengthening a Model Partnership

For nearly two decades, Scotland and Malawi have worked hand in hand across key sectors including health, education, climate resilience, and governance. The High Commission views this visit as a significant opportunity to renew commitments, celebrate progress, and explore future areas of collaboration that align with Malawi’s national development blueprint — Malawi 2063.

The visit will highlight the tangible results of the partnership:

• Improved health facilities and access to essential services;

• Enhanced education opportunities for young people, particularly girls and children with disabilities;

• Increased investment in renewable energy and climate-smart agriculture; and

• Continued efforts to promote gender equality and community empowerment.

A Vision for the Next 20 Years

The Malawi High Commission applauds the Scottish Government’s enduring commitment to international cooperation through its International Development and Climate Justice programmes. As both nations look ahead, the Mission hopes the visit will strengthen institutional links between Malawian and Scottish organisations and inspire new partnerships in research, innovation, and sustainable trade.

In the Jubilee Room at the House of Commons in London, a vibrant and aromatic event took place, bringing together tea enthusiasts, traders, dignitaries and politicians of course. Sureena Brackenridge MP hosted the Malawi High Commission, in collaboration with the London Tea Exchange, to an extraordinary tea tasting event that showcased the rich, diverse, and unparalleled tea offerings from Malawi. The event was attended by the guest of honour, Honorable Abida Mia MP, Minister of Water and Sanitation.

Celebrating Malawi’s Finest Teas

The tea tasting event aimed to shine a spotlight on Malawi’s tea industry, an essential foreign exchange earner for the country. With a proud history of tea cultivation dating back to the late 19th century, Malawi is renowned for its high-quality teas, which are cherished by connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Some of the teas featured were the Revolver Co-operative brands of Malawian teas.

A Gathering of Tea Aficionados and Industry Leaders

The event attracted a diverse audience, from seasoned tea traders and investors to curious local politicians and tea aficionados. This mix of attendees created a dynamic atmosphere, where conversations flowed as freely as the tea. Participants had the opportunity to taste and compare different teas, engage in discussions about tea cultivation practices, and explore potential business opportunities. The event also provided a platform for Malawian tea producers to network with UK-based tea companies and traders, aiming to increase market access and visibility for Malawi’s teas in one of the world’s largest tea-consuming countries. 

Promoting Ethical and Sustainable Tea Practices

Beyond the delightful tea tasting, the event highlighted important ethical and sustainability issues within the tea industry. Mr. Sangwani Hara, the chairman of the Tea Association of Malawi emphasized the country’s commitment to fair trade practices, ensuring that tea producers receive fair compensation for their work. Attendees learned about the efforts being made to improve labor conditions, promote environmentally friendly farming practices, and support community development in tea-growing regions. These initiatives resonated with many participants, who expressed a keen interest in supporting ethical tea brands.

A Culinary Journey Through Malawian Tea

One of the event’s highlights was the guided tea tasting sessions where participants were offered a deep dive into the intricate flavors and aromas of Malawian teas. Attendees learned how to identify subtle notes of floral, fruity, and earthy undertones, enhancing their appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in tea production. The sessions also provided insights into the various processing methods used to create different tea varieties, from the delicate white teas to the robust dark teas.

The Future of Malawian Tea in the UK Market 

The tea tasting event marked a significant step towards strengthening trade relations between Malawi and the UK. By showcasing the exceptional quality and diverse range of Malawian teas, the event aimed to carve out a niche for these products in the competitive UK market. With growing interest in ethically sourced and high-quality teas, Malawian tea producers are well-positioned to meet the demands of discerning consumers. 

In conclusion, the tea tasting event in London was a resounding success. It celebrated the rich heritage of Malawian tea, fostered meaningful connections within the tea industry, and championed ethical and sustainable practices. As Malawi’s teas continue to gain recognition and appreciation, the future looks bright for this vibrant and essential industry.