Small and Medium Enterprises Development Corporation (SMEDCO) is a parastatal organization under the Ministry of Industrialization, Business, Trade & Tourism. It was established under section 3 of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Act of 2024 with a mandate of regulating, promoting and developing the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector in Malawi.
SMEDCO intends to recruit the services of well-qualified, experienced and result oriented persons to fill various positions tenable at its Head Office and various satellite offices across the country as follows:
Position : Accounts Assistant (3 Posts)
Grade: SME 8
Duty Stations – Lilongwe, Mzuzu
SMEDCO intends to recruit the services of well-qualified, experienced and result oriented persons to fill various positions tenable at its Head Office and various satellite offices across the country as follows:
Position : Accounts Assistant (3 Posts)
Grade: SME 8
Duty Stations – Lilongwe, Mzuzu
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Lilongwe
- Category: Accounting
- Closing Date: 2026-08-04
Key Responsibilities
- Updating the cash book;
- Preparing and recording payment vouchers and cheques;
- Filing financial documents;
- Updating creditors and debtors’ registers;
- Preparing and issuing vouchers;
- Receiving cash and receipting the same;
- Disbursing petty cash;
- Updating payment and receipt cash books.
Requirements
- Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE);
- A minimum of Diploma in Accounting from a recognized tertiary institution and examination body, those with bachelor’s degree shall have added advantage;
- A minimum of two (2) years’ practical experience in a very busy office, preferably with various satellite offices;
- Sound knowledge of principles of bookkeeping and accounting procedures;
- Sound knowledge of accounting packages;
- Team player;
- Strong organizational skills, ability to multi-task and meet deadlines;
- High levels of honesty and integrity;
- Good communication skills.
How to Apply
Applications with detailed curriculum vitae with at least three names of relevant and traceable referees, including that of an immediate past employer if applicable, should be sent to:
The Chief Executive Officer,
SMEDCO,
Private Bag 393,
Lilongwe 3
or through smedi@smedi.mw
to reach him not later than close of business on Tuesday 4th August 2026.
The Chief Executive Officer,
SMEDCO,
Private Bag 393,
Lilongwe 3
or through smedi@smedi.mw
to reach him not later than close of business on Tuesday 4th August 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for an Accounts Assistant role in Malawi, especially at an organization like SMEDCO?
A diploma or certificate in accounting, such as ATD (Accounting Technicians Diploma) or similar, is usually essential. Practical experience with accounting software like Sage or QuickBooks, often gained through internships, is also highly valued.
What would be the common day-to-day responsibilities of an Accounts Assistant at SMEDCO, considering its focus on SMEs?
You would primarily assist with data entry, preparing payment vouchers, reconciling bank statements, and maintaining accurate financial records. This involves processing invoices, tracking expenses, and ensuring compliance with basic accounting principles relevant to SME operations.
What are the typical work culture and expectations for an Accounts Assistant in a Malawian parastatal or development corporation?
Punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and a strong work ethic are highly valued in Malawian professional environments. You will be expected to be diligent, detail-oriented, and a team player, often adhering to strict reporting deadlines.
What are the realistic career progression paths for an Accounts Assistant within SMEDCO or a similar organization in Malawi?
With further education, such as a degree in accounting (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, ICAM) and several years of experience, you could advance to an Accountant position. Specializing in areas like financial analysis or internal auditing could also be a future growth path.
What typical benefits can an Accounts Assistant expect from an organization like SMEDCO in Malawi, beyond the basic salary?
Common benefits often include medical aid contributions, pension scheme participation, and various types of leave such as annual, sick, and maternity leave. Some organizations may also offer professional development support or housing allowances.
How should I tailor my application, and what do Malawian employers, particularly in this sector, look for in an Accounts Assistant?
Emphasize your practical accounting software skills, attention to detail, and any experience with financial record keeping. Employers seek candidates who are reliable, eager to learn, and demonstrate a strong understanding of basic accounting principles.