Following the outbreak of COVID-19 in Malawi, the country’s president, Peter Mutharika and all the government ministers to receive a 10% wage cut for three months to help the government battle coronavirus.
This was disclosed by the president as he prepares a stimulus package to reduce the effect of pandemic disease on the nation’s economy. The stimulus package includes tax breaks for businesses, slash in the prices of fuel, and increase risk allowance for health workers.
Mutharika confirmed that 2,000 more health workers would be recruited as the country battles COVID-19. Malawi which is among the world poorest country announced 4 confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Thursday all of which have been linked to a travel history from the UK.
The country since then declared a state of emergency. While there is no lockdown in the country, gatherings of more than a hundred people are banned, schools are closed and people are advised to work from home. More importantly, to practice social distancing and proper hygiene.
The President earns about $3,600 (£3,000) monthly, but the amount to be raised by the pay cut for all the ministers remain undisclosed.
