ACTION AID WARNS GOVT ON IMF POLICIES

By Aamon Butao 

Action Aid International says the country needs to detach itself from some policies championed by the International Monetary Fund which the charity says oppresses the poor.  

This was revealed when Action Aid launched a report on the public versus austerity of south and eastern Africa which was conducted in fifteen countries.

The report has uncovered that austerity measures blocked recruitment of over 3 Million nurses, teachers and other essential public sector workers. 

In an interview with Timveni, Action Aid Malawi Acting Executive Director Rodney Mwaisimba said, "Government is failing to implement some of its activities like employing teachers and nurses in an attempt to be in line with IMF requirements."

Mwaisimba added that education, agriculture and health sectors are among victims of IMF policies.

He however acknowledged government fears undermining the IMF could result in massive pullout of donor support.

In her remarks, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee of Budget and Finance Gladys Ganda said the report’s recommendations will be presented in Parliament.

But she was quick to say it is sad that Malawians are facing numerous challenges due to some tough IMF policies.