Adaptation Options at the National Level

To adapt effectively, Malawi must build strong institutions and governance systems, including a National Climate Agency to coordinate initiatives, integrate research, and ensure efficient use of resources.

• Centralize climate data and provide updates to the public and policymakers.
• Improve early warning systems for extreme weather preparedness.
• Ensure funding is directed toward impactful adaptation initiatives.
• Work with research institutions to develop Malawi-specific climate solutions.

A proposed National Climate Information Centre would act as a hub for data, reports, and guidance on climate risks and adaptation strategies.

Adaptation efforts must address the needs of all citizens, particularly vulnerable groups such as women, disabled individuals, and communities living in high-risk areas.

• Create a gender task force to integrate women into climate decision-making.
• Support women-led agriculture cooperatives and climate-smart farming.
• Ensure fair access to resources and leadership opportunities for marginalized communities.

Malawi is exposed to floods, droughts and cyclones. Key adaptation actions can strengthen resilience and reduce losses.

• Climate Risk Insurance: trial programmes to protect farmers from crop losses, with potential support from ARC and ACRIFA.
• Adaptation Learning Centres: centres in all 28 districts to provide climate data, training and community support.
• Disaster Risk Reduction: relocation from flood-prone areas with fair compensation and support.

Phasing out unsustainable practices is critical for long-term adaptation success.

• Promote agroforestry and reforestation instead of deforestation and unsustainable land use.
• Regulate overfishing and introduce sustainable fishing practices.
• Reduce reliance on charcoal and firewood through clean energy alternatives such as biogas and solar cooking.
• Improve water management through rainwater harvesting and reduced groundwater over-extraction.

Existing activities must become more climate-smart to enhance resilience without requiring complete systemic overhauls.

• Climate-Smart Agriculture: conservation agriculture, crop diversification and irrigation.
• Resilient Infrastructure: climate risk assessments in new infrastructure projects.
• Improved Water Management: water conservation, rainwater harvesting and efficient irrigation.
• Early Warning Systems: wider coverage and better accessibility of timely alerts.

Novel approaches are needed to stay ahead of emerging climate risks while supporting sustainable growth.

• Precision Agriculture: remote sensing and automated irrigation to optimize water and land use.
• Nature-Based Solutions: wetland restoration and green infrastructure.
• Renewable Energy: solar and wind energy expansion.
• Climate-Resilient Urban Planning: heat-resistant materials, green spaces and improved drainage.