Mutharika appeals for Redcross’ lifesaving work support, donates MK10m towards Flag Week

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has urged Malawians to donate generously to the Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS) to support its lifesaving work.

The President made the appeal today at Kamuzu Palace when he launched the 2026 Red Cross Day and Red Cross Flag Week.

Mutharika commended the Red Cross for standing with communities in times of need and called on all Malawians to support the initiative.

Leading by example, the President donated K10 million toward this year’s Flag Week.

MRCS President Innocent Majiya lauded Mutharika for the support and also appreciated the Malawi for resuming the government subvention in 2018, noting that the funding had previously been suspended for 24 years (1994–2017).

Majiya said this support has strengthened the Society’s capacity to respond to disasters, promote health and resilience, and uphold the dignity of the vulnerable.

This year’s Red Cross Day is being held under the theme “United in Humanity” and aims to raise MK200 million.

WATISE 4.0 & Awards: Experts to Explore AI Impact on Telecoms, Fintech, ERP & HR as 4th Edition is Held in June

Lagos, Nigeria, 08 May 2026 -/African Media Agency (AMA)/- West Africa’s leading regional telecommunications, technology and business forum, the West Africa Telecommunications Infrastructure Summit and Exhibition (WATISE), will be looking at the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it impacts not just telecommunications infrastructure management across all types of infrastructure but also how businesses deploy it in their daily operation.

Known as WATISE 4.0 and Awards, the 2026 edition hosted by TechnologMirror, a leading telecoms, technology and business news website, has as its theme: The Resilient AI Fabric: Ensuring Trust, Integrity, and Sustainability in Next-Generation Network Infrastructure will be held at the Lagos Oriental Hotel on June 18, with the executive vice chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr Aminu Maida, delivering the keynote address.

A statement from TechnologyMirror, the organisers of the regional event, said that the WATISE 4.0 has been endorsed by the notable industry group, Association of Licensed Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ALTON), and with ICTLOCA, Nigeria’s local content advocacy group, as technical partners.

And as such, both the Chairman of ALTON, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo and the President of ATCON, Mr Tony Emokpere alongside the Board Secretary of ICTLOCA, Dr Adebunmi Akinbo as well as industry-focused paper presentations from our sponsors and partners.

WATISE has been designed as a regional gathering for telecommunications operators, regulators, industry-based organisations, businesses in technology and startups, policy formulators, government agencies and consumers to discuss infrastructure trends, insights, challenges and provider solutions that will leapfrog the region’s digital economy.

This year, there will be a forward-looking perspective on designing future networks (like those for 6G) that are inherently trustworthy and resilient, considering the foundational role of AI in their operation and potential attack vectors against the AI itself.

The WATISE 4.0 and Awards promised to also provide insights into the transformation impact of AI in the fintech industry, such as fraud detection and security in the areas of AI algorithms, monitor transactions in real-time to identify suspicious activity and strengthen anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) processes.

The experts at the event, which will be taking its award series to another, will also examine critical issues such as deploying AI to protect telecoms infrastructure and AI’s innovative impact on the protection of the FinTech industry from cyber-attacks and fraud as well as CX and KYC.

Country Editor, TechnologyMirror, Mr Isaiah Erhiawarien disclosed that the event already has as sponsors the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), while leading players are set to pick up slots of sponsorship.

He said further that WATISE 4.0 and Awards will feature a keynote presentation from industry stakeholders and sponsors’ presentations, an issue-based paper presentation, one robust panel session, an insightful fireside chat of leading industry experts and a recognitional industry award session.

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of TechnologyMirror.

THE ORGANISER
The WATISE is an initiative of TechnologyMirror, a leading technology news and information
website and winner of the Best Startups Supportive Online Media, 2022 and syndicated
across the EMEA by SyndiGate a global media conglomerate based in the USA.

CONTACT:
Victoria Akang-Obong Alfred
watisenigeria@gmail.com
events@watise.com.ng

The post WATISE 4.0 & Awards: Experts to Explore AI Impact on Telecoms, Fintech, ERP & HR as 4th Edition is Held in June appeared first on African Media Agency.

“Accept EIS or pack and go….leave Malawi for elsewhere”-CDEDI challenges traders

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) has intensified pressure on business operators protesting against the implementation of the Electronic Invoicing System (EIS), warning that those refusing to reopen their shops by Monday should prepare to “pack up and go.”

In a strongly worded statement released on Friday, and signed by CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa accused some business people, particularly individuals of Asian origin of allegedly financing and mobilising traders to keep shops closed in protest against the Malawi Revenue Authority’s electronic tax system.

Namiwa has since called on government to take tough action against traders resisting the system, arguing that the continued closure of shops risks paralysing Malawi’s already struggling economy.

CDEDI described the EIS as a progressive and long overdue reform aimed at improving tax compliance, transparency and accountability in business transactions.

According to the organisation, resistance to the system is largely being driven by individuals who allegedly benefited from under-declaring taxes and exploiting loopholes in the old invoicing arrangements.

The organisation further claimed that the protest has nothing to do with the introduction of a new tax but rather fear among some traders that the digital system will expose tax evasion practices.

CDEDI stressed that the EIS is simply an internet-based invoicing platform designed to ease compliance, reduce paperwork and minimise human errors through real-time reporting.

CDEDI has urged the Ministry of Homeland Security to review and revoke work permits and business permits for traders who will continue defying the law after Monday, May 11. The grouping also wants local councils and the Ministry of Trade to revoke business licences for companies refusing to comply with the EIS requirements.

The remarks come at a time when government, is pushing for full adoption of the digital invoicing system as part of efforts to improve domestic revenue collection and seal tax leakages.

For weeks, some traders across major trading centres have been resisting the EIS rollout, arguing that the system is expensive, complicated and difficult to implement, especially for small businesses.

The standoff has triggered concerns among consumers over rising uncertainty in the retail sector.

However, CDEDI insists that businesses operating legally have nothing to fear from the system.

The organisation argued that compliant traders should instead welcome reforms that promote fair competition and equal tax contribution.

In Malawi, authorities believe the EIS could help increase transparency in VAT collection and reduce losses caused by underreporting.

Meanwhile, CDEDI has threatened to organise nationwide peaceful demonstrations on May 13 should traders continue resisting the EIS implementation.

The grouping says Malawians who faithfully pay Value Added Tax deserve protection from what it described as “economic sabotage” by non-compliant business operators.

Somalia teeters on the brink of catastrophe as hunger crisis deepens

“This is not a distant warning. This is a crisis that is unfolding right now and it’s deepening quickly.”

As of May 2026, roughly 6 million people—nearly one in three Somalis—face acute hunger and severe malnutrition, bringing the nation to the brink of catastrophe. Driven by three failed rainy seasons, ongoing conflict, and severe aid cuts, the crisis is exacerbated by a 70% spike in food prices and a 150% rise in fuel costs,. [

Current Crisis Overview (May 2026)

  • Malnutrition Spike: Approximately 1.9 million children are expected to suffer from acute malnutrition this year.
  • Widespread Displacement: Hundreds of thousands have been displaced since January due to drought, with 300,000+ fleeing in early 2026.
  • Aid Cuts: The World Food Programme (WFP) has been forced to reduce assistance and may stop support entirely in some areas without immediate funding.
  • Regional Drivers: Multiple consecutive failed rainy seasons have caused the lowest crop harvests in 30 years and widespread livestock death.
  • Global Factors: The ongoing war on Iran has exacerbated the situation by disrupting supply chains and causing astronomical fuel price increases.

Key Regional Challenges

  • Puntland Drought: Intense drought conditions persist in northern regions like Puntland, where 6.5 million people nationwide are experiencing crisis or emergency levels of hunger.
  • Infrastructure Collapse: The combination of droughts and flash floods has destroyed vital water, sanitation, and health infrastructure,.

WFP officials have warned that the window to prevent a full-blown famine is rapidly closing without urgent international financial support

From brotherhood to betrayal: Explosive clash of Prophet Bushiri, Sambo

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-In what has become one of Malawi’s most talked-about spiritual showdowns, Major Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and Peter Sambo have turned a private falling out into a public spectacle, playing out for all to see on social media.

The saga began when Bushiri accused Sambo of hypocrisy, claiming that the man once considered a close ally was now bent on “crucifying” friends who had supported him.

The accusation came shortly after Sambo was controversially removed from his position, fueling speculation about loyalty, power, and personal ambition.

Not one to stay silent, Sambo struck back, unleashing a torrent of allegations against Bushiri.

Among the most shocking claims were accusations that the prophet had manipulated his own followers and even caused the death of his child a charge that has sent shockwaves through the religious community.

Followers of both men have been drawn into the feud, debating not only the truth behind the accusations but also the broader implications for Malawi’s faith leadership.

Social media feeds are awash with support, condemnation, and endless analysis, reflecting the deep divisions that now shadow what was once a seemingly unshakeable spiritual partnership.

At its heart, this battle is more than personal; it is a story of trust betrayed, friendship fractured, and faith tested in the glaring light of public scrutiny.

For many, it raises uncomfortable questions: can spiritual leaders wield influence responsibly when personal vendettas become public drama? And at what cost does loyalty give way to rivalry?

Malawi prophet claims South Africa xenophobia foretold, urges calm amid rising tensions

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Self-proclaimed prophet Harrison Njiragoma has said his 2025 warnings about xenophobic violence in South Africa are now unfolding, and has urged Malawians not to retaliate as tensions against foreign nationals escalate.

In a statement released this week, Njiragoma said that between July and September 2025 he repeatedly prophesied that South Africa would “rise against foreign nationals” in what he described as “catastrophic” attacks.

He claimed the vision was shown to him more than once and warned that the violence would reach a point where ordinary citizens, including landlords and landladies, would expose and hand over foreign tenants to police.

“At the time of the prophecy I asked everyone following me to prepare for the hard times ahead,” Njiragoma said. “I advised all foreigners in South Africa to save and send something back home for future use in case they were forced to return.”

The prophet now says “most parts” of the prophecy have been fulfilled, but cautioned that “there’s a lot more to take place.”

Addressing fellow Malawians, Njiragoma called for restraint. “I am therefore urging my fellow Malawians not to reiterate or revenge the incidents of xenophobic attacks as that will fuel up the anger of the beast and will result into more serious consequences nobody has ever imagined.”

He added: “We have to remain calm and patient until the storm is over. This will only run for a few weeks or months before signs die. And soon or later things will normalize.”

Njiragoma attributed the foresight to divine revelation, saying: “May the Praises and Glory be to God Jehovah Who causes His people to know the things to come before they begin to fall upon His people.”

The statement comes as Ghana has petitioned the African Union over recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa, citing harassment and threats against African nationals. South African authorities have not commented on Njiragoma’s claims.

Prophecies are not official warnings, and the South African government has previously condemned xenophobic violence while urging communities to report crimes through legal channels.

Zambian players, supporters beat football referee Andrew Lubusha to death

By Edwin Mbewe

CHIPANGALI-(MaraviPost)-Shock and grief have engulfed Chipangali District after a 55-year-old football referee was allegedly beaten to death by angry players and supporters during the Andrew Lubusha Football Tournament.

The tragic incident happened yesterday between 12:05 hours and 13:30 hours at Mchenga Primary School Grounds in Chief Mafuta’s area during a tense replayed fixture between Mikango United and Leopard United.

Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba identified the deceased as Donald Tonga of Madalistso Farm in Chief Mafuta’s area.

According to police, the violence stemmed from growing tensions that had already surrounded the tournament clash. During an earlier encounter played on May 5, chaos erupted after the referee awarded a controversial penalty to Leopard United while Mikango United was leading 2-1. Furious protests forced the match to be abandoned.

In an attempt to calm tempers, officials from both teams met on May 6 and agreed that the game would be replayed from the first minute.

But what was meant to settle the dispute ended in tragedy.

Mr. Mweemba said trouble broke out during the first half of the replayed match after the referee allegedly ignored a foul, triggering outrage among Mikango United players and supporters.

Witnesses say the referee was suddenly surrounded by an enraged mob before being brutally attacked with fists, kicks, stones, sticks and a bamboo stick as he desperately tried to escape from the pitch.

Some spectators reportedly attempted to rescue him, but were overpowered by the violent crowd.

Donald Tonga was later rushed to Chamasongo Clinic in critical condition, but medical staff pronounced him dead on arrival.

The shocking killing has sent waves of fear and condemnation across the district, with many residents questioning the growing levels of violence in local football.

Police have since launched investigations into the incident and are expected to make arrests.

FDH Bank posts strong 2025 performance, signals regional growth strategy 

FDH Bank plc has reported strong financial performance for the 2025 financial year, recording a profit after tax of K147.796 billion, a 100% increase on K74.063 billion in 2024. 

The Bank’s total assets also rose significantly to K1.636 trillion as of December 31, 2025, up from K1.241 trillion the previous year, reflecting sustained growth and operational strength. 

Speaking during an investment forum in Blantyre, Managing Director Noel Mkulichi described the performance as both resilient and forward-looking, driven by deliberate strategic choices. 

“This performance is not by chance; it is the result of a disciplined strategy, innovation, and our commitment to delivering value to our customers and shareholders,” said Mkulichi. 

He noted that the bank’s growth trajectory is now extending beyond Malawi, following the successful acquisition of Ecobank Mozambique in 2025. 

“We are positioning FDH Bank as a regional player. The Mozambique acquisition is a significant step in that direction, and we will continue to explore opportunities that align with our long-term vision,” he said. 

Mkulichi, however, acknowledged the challenging operating environment, citing reduced government borrowing, declining interest rates, and persistent foreign exchange shortages. 

“In response, we are deliberately diversifying into export-oriented sectors and mining to sustain growth and build resilience,” he said. 

Beyond its financial gains, the bank’s performance also translated into tangible contributions to the broader economy, including tax payments, job creation, and corporate social investment. 

During the year, FDH Bank channeled K3.1 billion towards initiatives such as food security, supporting communities across Malawi. 

Board Chairperson Charity Mseka said the bank’s performance reflects strong leadership, sound governance, and a clear focus on long-term value creation. 

“We are a strong bank, and we are always committed to working hard and producing results. When you do business, your outcome should be to make money, and that is what we have achieved in 2025,” she said. 

She further emphasised that the results demonstrate the bank’s ability to remain disciplined while pursuing growth. 

“What is important is that we have maintained discipline in how we grow the bank, ensuring that our lending remains prudent and our governance structures remain solid,” she said. 

Minority Shareholders Association of Listed Companies Secretary General (MISALICO) Frank Harawa commended the bank for delivering strong returns to investors. 

He said the increase in profitability and dividends is a clear indication that the bank is creating value for all shareholders. 

“This is the kind of performance shareholders expect. The growth in profits and dividends shows that the bank is on the right track and management is making sound decisions,” said Harawa. 

FDH Bank’s share price rose to K592.99 in 2025 from its initial public offering price of K10 in 2020. 

The bank also declared dividends amounting to K57.07 billion (K8.27 per share), up from K32.642 billion (K4.73 per share) in 2024. 

FDH Financial Holdings Limited remains the majority shareholder with a 74.05 per cent stake, followed by the general public at 20.96 per cent, and the Government of Malawi at 4.75 per cent.

PIL touts historic zero-accident record in fuel haulage

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Petroleum Importers Limited (PIL) has recorded a major safety breakthrough, delivering over 180 million litres of fuel into Malawi without a single accident or spill in 2025, marking a first-of-its-kind achievement in the country’s fuel transport sector.

The milestone, celebrated during this year’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work celebrations in Blantyre under the theme Zero accidents. Zero spills. My 100% commitment’ on Tuesday, highlights a rare success in a high-risk industry where fuel transportation is often associated with serious hazards.

In his address at the event, PIL General Manager, Martin Msimuko said the achievement reflects a deliberate, industry-wide commitment to prioritising safety over speed.

“We want transporters to put safety first so that fuel is delivered into the country without accidents. What we have achieved shows that zero accidents is not just an ideal, it is possible,” said Msimuko.

Msimuko noted that the industry has significantly improved its safety record compared to previous years.

“This is a major shift from the past, where we could record seven, nine or even ten accidents in a year,” he said.

He attributed the success to strong coordination among transporters, brokers and drivers, as well as strict adherence to safety protocols.

Given the highly flammable nature of petroleum products and the challenging conditions of many transport routes, Msimuko described the zero-incident record as a significant achievement not only for the industry but also for public safety.

“These tankers move through communities and along difficult roads. Any accident can have devastating consequences, so maintaining zero incidents is critical for protecting lives and property,” he said.

Directorate of Road Traffic and Safety Services representative, Madalitso Gunsaru, commended PIL’s record, describing it as a model for the broader transport sector.

“This milestone proves that even in high-risk operations like fuel transportation, safety can be managed effectively,” he said.

Gunsaru also indicated that Malawi recorded 3,984 road accidents and 1,033 fatalities last year, adding that PIL’s clean safety record offers a practical example of what disciplined adherence to safety standards can achieve.

He further emphasised the need for sustained collaboration among all stakeholders, including drivers, regulators, insurers and health institutions.

“Safety is a shared responsibility. What PIL has demonstrated is that with commitment and coordination, we can significantly reduce accidents on our roads,” he said. 

PIL is a consortium of four oil marketing companies, namely TotalEnergies, Puma, Engen, and Petroda.

Malawi Defence Force (MDF): Concern Regarding Mature Entry Recruitment Criteria

I write to bring to your attention concerns regarding the current recruitment process within the Malawi Defence Force (MDF), particularly in relation to officer cadet entry pathways.
As you are aware, the MDF provides two routes for commissioned officer entry: direct entry (for civilians) and mature entry (for serving personnel). The minimum requirements for both pathways include possession of at least a degree, with age limits of 28 years for direct entry and 35 years for mature entry.

It has recently come to our attention that, under the leadership of Jaffu, the mature entry advertisement has been restricted to personnel holding the rank of Sergeant and below. This limitation appears inconsistent with established provisions and is perceived as unfair to many deserving serving members.
There are several personnel above the rank of Sergeant ranging from Staff Sergeant to Warrant Officer Class I who possess qualifications beyond a first degree and fall within the stipulated age limit of 35 years. Excluding such individuals introduces a parallel structure that departs from established practice and undermines merit-based progression within the MDF. It is particularly concerning that highly qualified individuals, including those holding Master’s and PhD degrees, may be excluded solely due to rank considerations rather than merit and eligibility.

In light of this, we respectfully request that this matter be brought to the attention of the Commander-in-Chief, Peter Mutharika, as it raises serious concerns regarding fairness, transparency, and adherence to the MDF Act. Promotion and career advancement should be guided by merit and eligibility, not restricted in a manner that disadvantages qualified personnel.

At present, many deserving soldiers feel discouraged and concerned about the direction this process is taking. We believe that corrective action is necessary to restore confidence and ensure that recruitment procedures remain just, transparent, and inclusive.

We therefore kindly urge that the ongoing recruitment process, including the interviews scheduled to commence on Monday, 4 May 2026, be suspended until these concerns are fully addressed and aligned with the provisions of the MDF Act.

We trust in your leadership and judgment, Maravi, and hope that you will escalate this matter to the appropriate authorities for timely resolution.

Yours sincerely,
Deserving Concerned Soldiers

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