Butchery Finally Refunds Malawi’s Fertilizer Money
A German butchery which pocketed Malawi government’s K750 million meant for the procurement of last year’s Affordable Input Program’s (AIP) fertilizer, has returned the funds.
According a letter the German Senior Public Prosecutor, Florian Weinzierl forwarded to Malawi’s Attorney General, Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda, shows that Barkaat Foods has deposited the funds into the Smallholder Farmers Fertilizer Revolving Fund-SFFRFM of Malawi’s account.
“I am very happy to inform you that just a few minutes ago the transfer of the amount of 516 975,12 EUR to the Smallholder Farmers Fertilizer Revolving Fund of Malawi has been initiated,” reads part of the letter.
The notification further states that “Of course it might take a few days until the amount will reflect in the SFFRF’s account”.
Commenting on the development one of the Civil Society Organization leaders, Kinnear Mlowoka commended government more particularly the office of the Attorney General for the tireless efforts in ensuring that the funds are returned.
“As a country we are drawing lessons, as CSOs we are very excited and we would like to see reactions after the funds have reflected into SFFRFM’s account,” Mlowoka said.
Commenting on the same the HRDC Chairperson, Gift Trapence commend the Government for making sure that the money is returned.
“This should be a big accountability lesson to the Government. We need Government to committed in adhering to Procument procedures. Malawians want the value for money which are their taxes,” said Trapence.
He further added stating that this should not only be a lesson but those suspected to have flouted the procedures should be accountable by facing the law.
Government received heavy condemnation from the general public upon revelations that it bought AIP fertilizer from a German butchery whose brokers disappeared without even supplying a single bag.
The Attorney General, Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda made an assurance to the nation that he would do everything possible within his powers to ensure that those who pocketed the public funds are traced and possibly face the law.
