The Macroeconomic and Financial Management Institute of Eastern and Southern Africa (MEFMI) marked its 30th anniversary this week, celebrating three decades of dedication to enhancing macroeconomic stability, financial sector management, and debt management across the Eastern and Southern African region.
Originally formed by a visionary group of senior officials from Central Banks and Ministries of Finance, MEFMI has evolved into a premier regional institution with a membership comprising 15 countries, including Angola, Botswana and Zimbabwe.
This milestone reflects MEFMI’s resilience and commitment to adapting to the evolving economic landscape.
Dr. Louis Kasekende, MEFMI’s Executive Director, highlighted the organisation’s significant achievements over the years. “We take immense pride in our capacity-building initiatives that have empowered over 11,000 individuals, equipping them with the necessary skills to navigate complex economic challenges,” he stated.
Notably, around 7,000 of these beneficiaries have participated in MEFMI’s Phase Five programs, with many currently enrolled in Phase Six.
MEFMI’s flagship initiatives include the Macroeconomic Management Programme, the Debt Management Programme, and the Financial Sector Management Programme, which together have provided essential training to professionals and policymakers throughout the region.
The institute also runs a Fellows Development Programme (FDP) aimed at cultivating a pool of regional expertise.
“To date, we have trained approximately 200 Fellows, with around 70 currently active in various capacities,” Dr. Kasekende noted.
In addition to training, MEFMI engages in research and analysis that informs policy decisions, enhances regional cooperation, and promotes knowledge sharing among member countries.
Dr. Kasekende expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from member nations, saying, “Their partnership has been instrumental in our success and has enabled us to make a tangible impact in the lives of millions.”
Looking to the future, Dr. Kasekende affirmed MEFMI’s commitment to maintaining its leadership role in promoting macroeconomic stability and financial excellence.
“We will continue to adapt our programs to meet the evolving needs of our member countries, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of emerging trends and challenges,” he stated.
MEFMI, dedicated to building sustainable human and institutional capacity in macroeconomic and financial management, aims to support economic growth and poverty reduction across the region.
As the institute celebrates this significant anniversary, it stands ready to continue driving positive change in Eastern and Southern Africa for years to come.