• As the country holds the first ever National Innovation and Creativity Day

Despite the United Nation’s (UN) designation of 21st April as a World Creativity and Innovation Day, (WCID) in 2002, Malawi has never celebrated the day since its inception. 

The yearly celebration of the day raises advocacy and awareness on the role of creativity and innovation in all aspects of human development.

In accordance with its mandate, the Department of Innovations and creativity (DIC) in the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), would like to lead the nation in celebrating the Day in Malawi on 30th April in Lilongwe.

According to a concept note from the DIC, Malawi’s performance at global, regional and local levels continues to be weak.

“Currently, the Malawi innovation ecosystem is not well coordinated. It is characterised by low advocacy and awareness of innovation, poor knowledge sharing, low investments in innovation projects and fragmented efforts of stakeholders.

“Consequently, Malawi’s performance at global, regional and local levels continues to be weak. There is low productivity, minimal levels of industrialisation and low commercialisation of innovative activities in all sectors” reads the note.

Globally, innovation is seen as a catalyst for finding solutions to various global challenges and is clearly reflected in Sustainable Development Goal 9 which underscores the importance of innovation as a driver of economic growth and development.

Locally, Malawi 2063 also recognises innovation as key in driving the country’s transformative agenda.

Realising the significant role of innovation in the country’s development, the OPC established the Innovations and Creativity Department in 2020 to provide policy direction, technical guidance, coordination and advocacy for innovation and creativity in Malawi.

It is expected the day will create awareness on the importance of innovation in spurring development; encouraging development of local talents; technological advancement; development of new industries; job creation, increase development of new industries; job creation, and growth of knowledge-based economy for the nation.

President Lazarus Chakwera is scheduled to preside over the function as his presence will symbolize a strong government support and commitment towards promotion of innovation and creativity.

It is hoped this will send a powerful message that innovation is a priority for the Malawi Government.

“In essence, the celebration of the day in Malawi will not just be a one-day event. It will be a catalyst for long-term positive change. It will nurture a culture that values innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship. This will lay the foundation for a more vibrant, resilient and prosperous nation.”