The National Youth Council of Malawi (NYCOM) closed its participation at the 2025 International Trade Fair with a powerful statement: Malawi’s youth are not just future leaders—they are active drivers of economic transformation today.
Running from May 22nd to 29th under the theme, “Promoting Economic Transformation Through Private Sector-Led Industrialization,” the fair saw a vibrant display of youth-led innovation and enterprise. The highlight was the visit by His Excellency Dr Lazarus Chakwera, President of the Republic of Malawi, who toured the NYCOM stand and was welcomed by our Executive Director Mr. Rex Chapota. This high-profile visit reinforced the government’s commitment to empowering young entrepreneurs as key players in Malawi’s industrial and economic growth.
This commitment is at the heart of NYCOM’s Strategic Plan, especially Pillar 1: Youth Economic Empowerment, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation. The goal is clear—create more decent jobs and business opportunities that allow young people to build wealth and achieve self-reliance by 2030.
The range of products at the stand was impressive: Mwansangu Youth Organisation from Ntchisi offered value-added maize flour, Harvest Blend Oils promoted affordable sunflower cooking oil for smallholder farmers, Mchepa Pottery showcased ceramic tiles and plates made from local minerals, and KB Garments displayed locally made leather boots and protective workwear crafted from Malawian hides.
The results speak for themselves. Mchepa Pottery secured a bulk order for 50 plates, Mudya Super Phala landed distributors in Blantyre, and KB Garments received serious orders for their boots. By the fair’s close, most exhibitors had sold out, proving that youth-led products can compete—and win—in the marketplace.
Looking forward, NYCOM is forging partnerships with the Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry to open new markets for youth entrepreneurs. At the same time, the Youth Innovation Fund will soon reopen applications, giving more young innovators access to the funding and technical support they need to scale their businesses.
“Malawi’s youth are not waiting for change—they are making it happen. Our Strategic Plan is about equipping them with the resources and opportunities to drive real economic transformation,” said NYCOM Executive Director Rex Chapota.
The 2025 Trade Fair may have ended, but NYCOM’s mission to empower youth entrepreneurs and fuel Malawi’s development continues—because the future belongs to the bold, the innovative, and the determined.
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