NBM and Akiba Cement Tanzania‑Malawi Investment Alliance

Key Business Points

• Leverage NBM’s stake in Akiba Commercial Bank to simplify cross-border payments and financing for Malawi traders eyeing Tanzanian markets.
• Use the Tanzania-Malawi Investment Forum as a platform to turn discussions into partnerships, aiming for joint ventures that create jobs.
• Adopt digital banking tools offered by NBM to make trade transactions faster, safer and accessible across borders.

National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc, through its partner Akiba Commercial Bank of Tanzania, reaffirmed its commitment to deepen trade and investment links between the two nations. The statement came after banks participated in the Tanzania-Malawi Investment Forum held during the week at Tantrade grounds in Dar es Salaam.

Akiba Commercial Bank’s acting managing director Wezi Mwazani said the forum offered a rare chance to connect entrepreneurs with capital, markets and the right partnerships. She noted that economic growth accelerates when opportunities are linked to financing, market access and collaborators. Mwazani added that the real measure of success will be turning dialogue into concrete business deals that spark investment and generate employment.

William Kaunda, head of NBM’s Digital Banking Services Division, highlighted the bank’s plan to use its stake in Akiba to make cross-border transactions smoother, quicker and user‑friendly for customers. He explained that businesses operate beyond borders and that NBM’s role is to provide the tools that let Malawian firms explore opportunities in Tanzania and other regional markets.

Since completing the acquisition of a 77.3 percent share in Akiba Commercial Bank in June 2022, NBM has rolled out service centres Tanzania. These centres are designed to support Malawian exporters, importers and service providers who need local currency handling, trade finance and advisory services. By combining NBM’s domestic strength with Akiba’s Tanzanian network, the partnership aims to reduce friction in regional trade and encourage more Malawian entrepreneurs to zoloweka (invest) abroad.

The forum’s organizers stressed that discussions must move beyond talk to action. They urged participants to follow up on leads, sign memoranda of understanding and launch pilot projects that can be scaled. For Malawi’s business community, the takeaway is clear: leverage the strengthened banking bridge, adopt digital solutions and pursue joint ventures that create chigwiri (jobs) and boost m’bali (wealth) at home and across the border.

Analysts say that easier access to Tanzanian shilling accounts and trade finance could lower costs for Malawian farmers exporting tobacco, tea and legumes, while manufacturers could source raw materials such as sisal and cotton competitively. The banks also plan to introduce a shared online portal where customers can track payments, apply for letters of credit and receive market updates in real time. This digital push aligns with Malawi’s national strategy to increase exports by ten percent over the next four years and to attract foreign direct investment into agro‑processing and tourism. For local entrepreneurs, the partnership offers a practical way to test new markets with reduced risk, using familiar banking channels and expert advice from both sides of the border.

Business leaders are encouraged to visit NBM branch or Akiba service centre to speak with a trade advisor about setting up a cross-border account, applying for export financing or joining a joint-venture matchmaking event. By taking these steps now, Malawian firms can benefit from rising regional demand for food, textiles and tourism while supporting the country’s goal of inclusive growth.

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