Tribute to Ephraim Wadonda Chirwa: Concept Note and Call for Papers
Malawi Journal of Economics: Special Issue
Please note: The deadline for submitting a concept note for this call for papers has now passed.
1. Introduction
Following the shocking and untimely loss of Ephraim Wadonda Chirwa on 15 July 2019, the Department of Economics (DOE) of the University of Malawi will soon produce a special issue of the Malawi Journal of Economics (MAJE) which it publishes in collaboration with the Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM). MAJE is an outlet for high quality research articles focusing on economic theory and the application of analytical techniques to a wide range of issues in economics. The journal is of special appeal to academics, students, policy makers, development experts and others interested in the Malawian and global economies.
It is not practically possible to present the rationale for this especial issue exhaustively. Ephraim’s illustrious contribution to the body of knowledge in economics and related studies may never be easily matched in the foreseeable future. MAJE, for which he is a founding member and first editor-in-chief, is a befitting medium to summarise his vast scholarly work and impactful contribution to academia. The special issue will not only be part of the DOE’s endless gratitude to the glittering character, true professional and selfless mentor that is Ephraim, but also part of our effort to preserve his legacy, so that future generations of students, scholars, other experts and policy-makers will live to envy those of us who have had the privilege of learning from him directly and otherwise.
2. Approach
The special issue will be a thematic exposition of Ephraim’s work. At least one paper will be produced under each of the following themes:
- Industrial policy and private sector development
- Agricultural policy, agricultural markets, food security and nutrition
- Poverty and social protection
- Financial development and resource mobilisation
- Economic reforms, neo-liberalism and aid
In general, the papers under each theme should:
a) summarise the works, focusing on the analytics and key findings;
b) provide a critic of the works by bringing out areas of consensus and debate;
c) bring out Ephraim’s contribution to the body of knowledge; and
d) unearth directions for further research
Authors are encouraged to demonstrate how Ephraim’s contribution has bettered our understanding of the discourse under the theme, but also to bring out any gaps therein if necessary.
An editorial note will precede the papers.
3. Time Frame
The following time frame is proposed:
- 13 September 2019: presentation of this concept note to the DOE and discussion (done)
- 30 September 2019: identification and assignment of authors and corresponding paper titles
- 31 December 2019: submission of draft papers for peer review
- 31 January 2020: finalisation of peer review process
- 28 February 2020: receipt of revised publishable papers
- 31 March 2020: publication of the special issue of MAJE
4. Call for Papers
Authors interested to contribute a paper are now invited to do so, indicating the working title of their paper and the theme under which it falls (see Part 2 above) before 30 September 2019.
All Communication: Ronald Mangani (rmangani@cc.ac.mw; rmangani@yahoo.com)
For tributes to Ephraim given by friends and colleagues, click here