Photo: Vera Kamtukule, PhD Malawi’s Minister of Tourism
In a decisive move to reposition Malawi’s tourism sector, His Excellency Dr Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera has officially assented to the new Tourism Bill (Bill No. 20 of 2025): a landmark development that Minister of Tourism Vera Kamtukule calls “a new chapter” in Malawi’s development story.
“This is not just an industry upgrade; it’s a strategic move that aligns directly with MW2063 and MIP-1,” Kamtukule said in a statement shortly after the assent. “His Excellency didn’t just sign a piece of legislation he has turned a new page in Malawi’s development story.”
The new law signals a clear shift in how tourism is viewed: not as a passive or secondary sector, but as “a powerful engine for jobs, investment, and national pride.” It establishes the Malawi Tourism Authority, sets up clear standards and streamlined registration and licensing procedures, and officially recognises the Malawi College of Tourism as the government’s central training institution for hospitality professionals.
“For operators, it means clarity, confidence, and credibility,” the Minister added.
“For the country, it means growth that’s guided and guaranteed.”
The assent, announced in a State House press release dated 2nd July 2025, was part of a broader batch of legislation aimed at strengthening multiple sectors in line with the country’s national vision. The Tourism Bill sits alongside other key assents, such as the Penal Code (Amendment), Sugarcane Industry Bill, and Mental Health Bill.
But for the tourism sector, this moment is especially symbolic. Kamtukule emphasised that the Act breathes life into Malawi’s Tourism Master Plan, giving structure and support to projects from Chitipa to Nsanje
It also directly supports Enabler 6 (Economic Infrastructure), Enabler 5 (Human Capital Development), and Pillar 3 (Urbanisation)under the Malawi 2063 development framework.
“What’s even more powerful is the political will behind this move,” she noted. “His Excellency has shown, once again, that transforming the tourism sector is not an afterthought; it is a priority.”
For communities, creatives, investors, and tour operators, the message is clear: the groundwork has been laid. “This moment is about belief,” said Kamtukule. “It’s about beholding what Malawi can become and setting the legal, strategic, and operational foundations to become it.”
She called on all stakeholders to rise to the occasion: “The environment is ready. The vision is clear. The time is now. Let’s build products, shape experiences, and market Malawi with pride. Let’s move from potential to impact together.”
In her words, “Tourism is no longer just a beautiful story: it’s now the law.”
