By Mustafa Makumba

The recent withdrawal of the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the suspension of aid to developing nations serve as a stark reminder of the volatile nature of international alliances and dependencies. These developments highlight the urgent need for nations, especially in the developing world, to reassess their strategies for economic independence and self-reliance.

Islam, through its teachings, encourages nations and individuals to build resilience and reduce dependence on external sources. The Qur’an states: “Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves” (Quran 13:11). This verse reminds us that meaningful transformation must begin with internal efforts—a principle applicable to economic and political sovereignty.

The suspension of aid to developing countries has exposed the vulnerabilities of nations that heavily rely on foreign assistance. While aid can provide short-term relief, over-dependence often hinders the development of sustainable systems. Islam’s emphasis on self-sufficiency and community solidarity offers timeless guidance for building robust economies.

Islamic principles advocate for a balanced approach to wealth creation and distribution. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The upper hand (giving) is better than the lower hand (receiving)” (Bukhari and Muslim). This Hadith underscores the importance of being in a position to give rather than perpetually receiving, encouraging individuals and nations to cultivate resources and generate wealth that could sustain themselves and others.

Islamic economic systems prioritize fairness, justice, and the elimination of exploitative practices. Zakat (obligatory charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity) not only alleviate poverty but also promote wealth circulation within communities. For a nation like Malawi, this principle can translate into creating policies that empower local industries, encourage innovation, and foster economic collaboration within and across borders.

The withdrawal of aid is  as a wake-up call to reassess national priorities and policies. Malawi can invest in human capital as education and skills development are essential for building self-reliant economies. Malawi can also embark on promoting local industries by supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) thereby reducing dependence on imports and foreign investments. Strengthening regional alliances can prove fruitful since collaboration with neighboring countries can create shared economic opportunities and reduce reliance on distant powers. Leveraging Islamic Finance is another way Malawi can alleviate itself from this development: Interest-free financing models and ethical investment principles can provide a sustainable alternative for economic growth.

As much as self-reliance is vital, the responsibilities of global powers cannot be overlooked. With great influence comes great responsibility, and nations like the United States must recognize the impact of their decisions on vulnerable populations. Islam emphasizes justice on a global scale, as the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or is oppressed.” When asked how to help an oppressor, he replied: “By preventing him from oppressing others” (Bukhari).