By Jones Gadama
The Transporters Association of Malawi (TAM) has issued a clarification regarding a joint press release dated April 29, 2025, that was circulating in the media.
The release, which purportedly represented various transport associations, including TAM, was issued without adequate consultation and coordination with the association.
TAM spokesperson Frank Banda and Secretary General Sympathy Chisale expressed concerns that their specific perspectives were not incorporated into the document.
Despite this, TAM appreciates the initiative taken by the Ministry of Trade and Industry, led by Honourable Minister Vitumbiko Mumba, in addressing structural issues affecting the transport sector and broader economy.
The association remains committed to collaborating with the government to create a conducive and competitive environment for trade and transport in Malawi.
However, TAM emphasizes the need for robust stakeholder consultations before policy decisions are made, particularly those involving import restrictions.
The recent ban on the importation of ginger and bananas has had a negative impact on transporters, with some members incurring significant downtime and increased operational costs.
TAM notes that some of its members had already dispatched trucks to Tanzania to procure these items, which are now stuck at the Songwe border.
The association highlights that the banana industry in Malawi has been devastated by the banana bunchy top virus outbreak in past years, leading to a reliance on imports.
The ban has forced small businesses and SMEs, which import bananas, out of business, leaving transporters without loads to haul.
TAM also clarifies that most of the bananas imported are procured in areas where local currency is used, minimizing the impact on Malawi’s foreign exchange reserves.
The association acknowledges the efforts of the Ministry of Transport, led by Honourable Minister Jacob Hara, in addressing concerns related to the Haulage Council.
TAM remains available and willing to engage constructively with all relevant ministries and stakeholders to ensure that transporters’ voices are heard and sectoral challenges are addressed effectively.
The association’s clarification demonstrates its commitment to promoting the interests of transporters in Malawi and ensuring that their concerns are taken into account in policy decisions.
TAM’s statement highlights the need for robust stakeholder consultations in policy decision-making, particularly in the transport sector.
The association’s efforts to promote the interests of transporters and ensure that their voices are heard will likely contribute to creating a more conducive environment for trade and transport in Malawi.
