FOR REFORM: The chief of the International Monetary Fund visited Malawi on Friday in a show of support for the southern African nation's decision to pursue tough economic reforms despite widespread opposition to the measures.

TAKING FLAK: Malawi's president has been criticized by domestic opponents for sharply devaluing the national currency in line with prescriptions from the Washington-based international lender.

STRUGGLE TO GET BY: Malawi, one of Africa's poorest countries, is struggling with high inflation that has made the costs of goods and services difficult to afford for many citizens.