The new policy was launched in May 2008 by the former Minister for Europe, External Affairs and Culture, Linda Fabiani. The policy is supported by two distinct groups, as follows:
The International Development Advisory Group (IDAG) provides support and advice to the Minister for Culture, External Affairs and the Constitution, Michael Russell, and covers all six elements of the international development policy, including the programme with Malawi. This group does not take on the assessment of individual funding applications or funding decisions.
The Scotland-Malawi Advisory Group (SMAG), also chaired by the Minister for Culture, External Affairs and the Constitution, Michael Russell, is a smaller group and provides a mechanism for more in depth discussions. This group does not report to the IDAG, but is a standalone group in recognition of Scotland's special relationship with Malawi. It also does not assess or make decisions on individual funding applications.