The Malawian government has implemented strict austerity measures that include staffing cuts at its diplomatic missions abroad, according to the Mail & Guardian. The embassy reductions come as the government attempts to negotiate a new extended credit facility with the International Monetary Fund following the expiration of its previous $175 million arrangement. International donors have cautioned that demonstrating macroeconomic stability is required before they will consider resuming direct budget support.
In other international cooperation news, a United States-based team of pro bono attorneys has helped students secure design patents for products built to assist residents of Malawi's Dzaleka Refugee Camp, The Texas Lawbook reports. Building on a previous patent for low-cost reusable menstrual pads, the latest patent covers a new water filtration system designed to address clean water scarcity in and around the refugee settlement.