In February 2025 the UK Labour Government announced £3billion in cuts to its overseas aid budget in the next 2 years. One of those countries which will feel the impact of this decision is Malawi.

Scotland has always had a close relationship with Malawi. In Orkney, on Sunday, there was a beautiful concert in the St Magnus Cathedral raising funds for the Malawi Music Fund. It supports music and arts projects for children in Malawi.

There are indications that the UK Government is planning further cuts to overseas aid, with devastating results for the people of Malawi.

The relationship between Scots and Malawians began in 1859, with the warm welcome extended to David Livingstone and his companions when he entered what is now Malawi for the first time….The Scotland Malawi Partnership was officially launched in April 2004 with the support of the Lord Provosts of Edinburgh and Glasgow. Scotland Malawi Partnership.

The First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney has written to the UK’s Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs Yvette Cooper, about reports of intended large-scale cuts by the UK Government to its development assistance budget to Malawi.

Malawi has an estimated population of 22,224,282 and  is one of the world’s least developed countries. It has a low life expectancy and high infant mortality. HIV/AIDS is highly prevalent in the country.

Successive Scottish Governments have supported projects and funding initiatives in Malawi. In October this year FM John Swinney visited the country.

In a statement prior to his visit John Swinney said:

“Our funding has helped to build operating rooms for children’s hospitals, establish research labs, advance gender equality, support renewable energy initiatives, and ensure children – in particular girls – can attend school.

“At a time when governments across the world are cutting aid programmes overseas, internationalism, and international solidarity, has never been more important.   

“Scotland will continue to stand with the international community and to do our bit for a fairer, more equal world.”

John Swinney has described the forecasted cuts being made by the Labour Government in London as ‘drastic’ for Malawi. He reaffirmed Scotland’s commitment to supporting the people of Malawi:

“Regardless of the actions of the UK Government, the Scottish Government will continue to be a good global citizen and will continue to support and advocate for our partner countries like Malawi.” 

Images courtesy of Scottish Government on Flickr.

Fiona Grahame

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