Revitalizing Malawi’s Economy: UNDP and KfW Partner to Drive Climate Resilient Growth
Key Business Points
- Malawi’s transition to a sustainable and climate-resilient economy is urgent, with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and German Development Cooperation calling for private sector involvement through the Green Economic Transition Facility (GETF).
- Private enterprises can apply for the GETF Window Two Round three, focusing on innovative, inclusive, and commercially viable responses to climate challenges, with matching grants of between $40,000 and $300,000.
- Specific focus areas for the window under round three include waste management solutions, soil conservation, biodiversity conservation, green financial solutions, and digital green solutions, among others, with private sector companies operating in these sectors encouraged to apply.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and German Development Cooperation, through KfW Development Bank, have launched a call for applications under the Green Economic Transition Facility (GETF) Window Two Round three. This initiative aims to support Malawi’s transition to a sustainable and climate-resilient economy by providing catalytical matched-grant finance and on-demand technical assistance to private enterprises. The GETF aligns with national priorities, including the Malawi 2063 Implementation Plan and National Climate Change Management Policy.
Speaking at the launch event, UNDP Resident Representative Fennela Frost emphasized the importance of the private sector in driving economic transformation and climate solutions. "The private sector has the agility and creativity required to bring climate solutions to market at scale," she said. Frost called for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to develop home-grown solutions contributing to national development through responsible investments.
KfW Country Director Lilongwe Office, Daniella Base, encouraged applicants to submit bold, evidence-based, inclusive, and commercially viable proposals that address environmental pressure points and demonstrate tangible green innovation. The specific focus areas for the window under round three include waste management solutions, technologically-advanced soil conservation, biodiversity conservation and restoration, green financial solutions, crop and seed technologies, livestock and fisheries technologies, eco-tourism and nature-based enterprises, digital green solutions, e-mobility and green transport.
Private sector companies operating in these sectors with new innovative commercially driven projects are encouraged to apply. The Expression of Interest process will close on January 10, and successful applicants will receive on-demand technical assistance and matching grants of between $40,000 and $300,000. According to GETF eligibility criteria, a lead applicant must be a private for-profit company or financial institution operating or willing to operate in Malawi, with sound financial performance and clear corporate governance.
This initiative presents an opportunity for Malawi’s private sector to drive economic transformation and contribute to the country’s climate action and economic growth. As Fennela Frost noted, "Beyond job creation and innovation, the private sector has the agility and creativity required to bring climate solutions to market at scale." With the GETF, private enterprises can access funding and technical assistance to develop innovative green products, businesses, and industries, ultimately supporting Malawi’s transition to a sustainable and climate-resilient economy. As the Chichewa phrase "Kusamala ndi kuthandiza" suggests, working together and supporting each other is crucial for achieving economic growth and development in Malawi.
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