Malawi nears launch of Labour Market Information System

SALIMA, Malawi (ILO News) - Malawi is a step closer to launching its national Labour Market Information System (LMIS) following a four-day technical workshop that prepared labour market data for integration into the new platform.

Held from 11 to 14 August 2026, the workshop brought together officials from the Ministry of Labour, Skills and Innovation, National Statistical Office (NSO), Technical, Entrepreneurial and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TEVETA), e-Government Department and National Data Centre. The International Labour Organization (ILO) provided technical and financial support through the Global Accelerator Initiative on Jobs and Social Protection for Just Transitions.

During the workshop, participants converted labour market statistics into internationally recognized Statistical Data and Metadata Exchange (SDMX) formats and uploaded initial datasets using ILO-supported digital tools. The exercise marked a major milestone towards making labour market information more accessible, reliable and easier to use.

Once operational, the LMIS will provide up-to-date information on employment trends, labour demand and skills needs, helping policymakers make informed decisions on jobs and skills development.

Participants also explored an artificial intelligence-powered Labour Market Intelligence tool designed to turn data into practical insights for planning and decision-making.

The workshop strengthened collaboration among institutions responsible for collecting and managing labour market information and produced a roadmap for the system's final implementation phase.

With initial datasets now uploaded and tested, Malawi is entering the final stage before the LMIS is launched. The platform is expected to support better employment planning, skills development and evidence-based policymaking. It will also help job seekers identify employment opportunities, understand which skills are in demand and make informed career and training decisions.