Patience Chatsika, board chair of the Malawi Investment and Trade Centre (MITC), emphasized the strategic role of Ningbo, Zhejiang province, in promoting investment opportunities in Malawi and shared her insights on female leadership during a recent forum in the city.

Speaking at the China-Malawi Special Economic Zone investment forum in Ningbo, Chatsika described the city as an ideal gateway for Chinese investors to explore African markets. She noted that the city's dynamic economy and pragmatic entrepreneurial culture create a strong foundation for successful partnerships. Malawi offers comprehensive one-stop services for investors, including preferential tax rates, land-use incentives, and duty-free access to the 16-member Southern African Development Community, making it an attractive destination for Chinese businesses.

Malawi, known as the "Warm Heart of Africa", has drawn increasing attention from Chinese investors due to its rich natural resources, favorable geographic location, and stable political environment. Priority sectors include agriculture, renewable energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and education. The China-Malawi Special Economic Zone has already attracted more than 30 high-quality enterprises, with total signed investments approaching $5 billion, establishing a mutually beneficial "cooperation city" on African soil.

In addition to investment discussions, Chatsika expressed appreciation for Ningbo's vibrant city life and culinary culture, noting the freshness and diversity of local seafood and vegetables. She also reflected on the challenges of female leadership, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing different life stages and encouraging women to pursue opportunities in sectors such as textiles, tourism, agribusiness, renewable energy, and logistics, supported by government policies that foster female participation and entrepreneurship.