Since adopting the Paris Agreement in 2015, Malawi has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing adaptation efforts. The country updated its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) in 2021, outlining priority climate actions until 2040. These revised NDCs include strategies to address climate change causes and impacts, aligning with the Paris Agreement's goals. Starting in 2012, Malawi developed various strategic tools like the Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions (NAMA) and the National Climate Change Management Policy (NCCMP). These efforts were supported by government ministries, departments, agencies, and non-state actors.

Malawi aims to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Energy for All (SE4ALL) goal, in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, recognizing energy as crucial for social and economic development. The Malawi Growth and Development Strategy (MGDS III) emphasizes energy as essential for the economy, aiming for sustainable energy access. The successor plan, MIP-1 (2021-2030), lacks a clear low emissions development pathway but connects with the NDCs. Malawi has policies and frameworks to support energy sector growth, relying on transparent and accountable investments. The energy sector holds the largest potential for emissions reduction, targeting 85% by 2040. The study highlights the need for a stand-alone Low Emissions Development Strategy, better coordination, capacity building, and enhanced financing to achieve these goals