The journal was launched on May 22, 2026, by Minister of Energy and Mining, Dr. Jean Mathanga, during the opening of the 3rd MUBAS School of Engineering Conference in Blantyre.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Mathanga urged researchers and engineers to focus on innovations that directly respond to the country’s socio-economic needs.

“Research and innovation must move beyond theory and produce practical solutions capable of transforming communities, industries, and the economy,” she said.

She commended MUBAS for championing transformative research in sectors such as energy, mining, infrastructure, manufacturing, and environmental sustainability.

Spearheaded by the School of Engineering, JAEST aims to provide a platform for translating research into practical solutions for communities, industries, and policymakers. The journal will support evidence-based research in industrial innovation, climate change, digital transformation, infrastructure development, energy access, food security, and waste management.

MUBAS Vice -Chancellor, Associate Professor Nancy Chitera, said the journal reflects the university’s commitment to advancing research and innovation.

“This journal reflects MUBAS’ commitment to producing knowledge and innovations that can contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of Malawi,” said Chitera.

The conference, held under the theme “Integrated Engineering Innovations for Industrialization and Sustainable Development,” brought together researchers, academics, policymakers, students, and industry players.

Keynote speaker, Professor Innocent Musonda of the University of Johannesburg, said African countries, including Malawi, continue to face major infrastructure deficits that require innovative engineering solutions.

“We need engineers who can technically design while also considering the whole lifecycle of a building,” said Musonda.

Musonda added that Africa has enough resources to fund its infrastructure development without relying on donor support. He pointed out that remittances from Africans who are living in the diaspora can also be used to support infrastructure development across the continent.

The launch of JAEST is expected to strengthen collaboration between academia, industry, and government while supporting Malawi’s industrialization and sustainable development agenda.