Category Archives: Malawi

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Business, Malawi

Malawi Veep Usi gives NEEF positive corporate image

MaraviPost

Love him or loath him but Vice President Michael Bizwick Usi is a game changer, goal getter and a team player.

Ask the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF), an organisation that was tainted with negativity to the extent that some thought it gives loans to ruling party supporters.

But since the day Vice President Usi stepped in and started speaking about Neef as a crucial government institution that can bail the poor of the poorest out of gut wrenching poverty, the narration has changed.

The corporate face of Neef has been slowly but surely shifted in just a matter of weeks.

Let’s come to face it. Here is the Vice President who has revolutionalosed Neef and pleading with the institution to review some of the conditions that hinder the poor from accessing loans.

“For instance, the issue of Guarantor must be reviewed. Think of a poor woman seeking to borrow MK50,000 to boost her Mandasi business but noone is stepping up to be her Guarantor.

Do we penalise this innocent woman?” Queried the Vice President when he met Neef top management.

The Vice President has also taken it to himself to help take off political colours from the organisation while truly projecting it as a financing institution established to empower Malawians.

“Neef is not for politicians and their followers. Neef is for Malawians. Neef must empower people to make them self-reliant. Begging is not good. Begging brings disrespect,” the veep told Neef assemblies in Salima, Kasungu, Karonga and Mzimba this week.

Neef CEO Humphrey Mdyetseni has been at loss of words to thank the Vice President for his efforts to step in and energise the organisation that has been battling negative publicity.

“We sincerely thank you, Your Honour. You have demonstrated to the public that Neef is not all what they think it is. The mindset has changed. You have visited and encouraged beneficiaries who are changing their lives as well as the lives of their communities,” said Mdyetseni.

Mdyetseni further notes that the Vice President has gone beyond leadership to Ambassdorial role in his bid to have more Malawians access the loans to start small scale businesses.

“You have challenged us to be responsive and flexible to change. We will review some of our processes to achieve and ensure that we cut bureaucracies and delays that people encounter to access loans,” said Mdyetseni in one of the meetings.

To achieve his crusade to bring public trust into Neef, the Vice President has over the week put extra hours to meet beneficiaries and prospective beneficiaries to get organised and access the loans.

What the Vice President has not forgotten to preach in his crusade for a responsive Neef, is to tell the people that they must always remember to pay back their loans.

“This is a revolving fund. When we borrow, we must pay so that we can borrow and that others too can borrow. In doing so we will be empowered and be able to fight poverty,” said the Vice President.

Meanwhile, the Vice President on Friday concluded his firt leg of Neef rovolution and rebranding tours with Mzimba where he interacted with beneficiaries and visited those that have excelled through Neef loans.

Prior to Mzimba, the Vice President was in Karonga 24 hours earlier and was visibly impressed with the thriving Hara Rice scheme – a scheme he described that can do more and prove that Neef can change lives.

One man, one Vice President, one passionate individual showing us what ought to be done to tell our success story at the expense of doom and gloom that social media would make us believe about Neef.

Politics

Malawi Parliament rise to sine die

Dorica Mtenje

By Dorica Mtenje

LILONGWE (Maravipost): 5th meeting of the National Assembly in the 50th session of Parliament has risen to sine die after members discussed for four weeks issues to do with national importance including the passing of over 14 bills.

Making the sine die remarks, Leader of the House, Chimwendo Banda, said the government has committed to distribute maize across the country.

Chimwendo Banda
Richard Chimwendo Banda amasses political power

Chimwendo said Chakwera has made the direction for the food relief emphasize no politics on it.

He adds that no violence will occur in Mzuzu as the distance for the rallies is commendable.
,
He therefore applaudes the members for smooth deliberations, ion which enables them to pass crucial bills.

Hon. Dr. George Chaponda
Closing Remarks by Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Dr. George Chaponda During the 5th Meeting of the 50th Session of Parliament

In his remarks, Leader of the Opposition (LOP) George Chaponda said the government blocked the opposition members from bringing in the National identity card issued.

Chaponda a call all up the on the government to show commitment to making sure that Chilima’s death is well investigated.

LOP asked the government to promote peace by rescheduling their rally as it’s likely to cause violence with the distance.

Human Rights conservative Committee (HRCC) Robert Mkwezalamba told Maravipost in an interview that the current government need to bow down to the calls of rescheduling their rally to allow those that requested for the rally first to proceed.

Mkwezalamba said they should not take advantage because they are in power.

Parliament will reconvene in November for the budget review session.

Malawi, Obituaries

CDEDI gives Chakwera fortnight to fire MDF Commander Phiri, Kunkuyu, Suleiman on Chikangawa plane crash

Maravi Post Reporter

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s civil rights group Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) has asked President Lazarus Chakwera to institute a commission of inquiry on the Chikangawa Forest plane crash that killed late Vice President Saulos Chilima and eight others.

CDEDI calls comes barely a week after Chakwera told the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Lilongwe mega rally that he had no hand in the plane crash while arguing that the accident should not be used as political tool ahead of 2025 general elections.

Chakwera officiating the induction of Paul Valentino Phiri as MDF Commander

The civil rights grouping observed that the German Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident failed to answer key issues including the cause of the plane crash.

Reading the letter to the news conference on Friday, September 20, 2024 in the capital Lilongwe, CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa said Malawians deserve the truth on plane crash.

Namiwa said the letter has been submitted already before Chakwera departure to United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

Therefore CDEDI has demanded the firing Information Minister Moses Kunkuyu for false narrative on plane crash.

CDEDI demands, “Fire the Malawi Army chief General Valentino Paul Phiri for allowing the country’s Vice-President to travel on an aircraft that was a disaster-inwaiting and, also, for misinforming the nation that the Malawi Defence Force could not locate the plane due to the thickness of the forest, a notion that has been contradicted by the FBU preliminary report”.

“In exercise of our governance watchdog role, we the Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) write you, Sir, with reference
to the above stated matter.

Kunkuyu and Suleman

“To begin with, we would like to commend you, Sir, for according a dignified burial to the fallen Vice-President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, former First Lady Dr. Patricia Shanil Dzimbiri and the seven others who died in that
plane crash in Chikangawa Forest in Nkhata Bay on that fateful Monday,10th June 2024,” reads CDEDI letter in part.

The letter adds, “Secondly, we would like to applaud you, Your Excellency, Sir, for engaging international experts, the German Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident, who have since provided a preliminary technical report on the accident. However, Your Excellency, Sir, the aforementioned report has not provided answers to critical questions bothering the nation.

“Thus far, Your Excellency, Sir, public sentiments you made at your Malawi Congress Party (MCP) rally on September 15, 2024 at Ngwenya in Lilongwe City, just a few weeks after the release of the report, attest to the fact that there are many speculations, accusations and counter-accusations that are not helping matters towards allowing Malawians and many others to find a
closure on that tragedy”.

CDEDI letter observes, “Actually, until the 15th September, 2024 MCP rally, most Malawians thought you were not bothered by the speculations and the accompanying finger-pointing over the Chikangawa nine deaths. But, Your Excellency, Sir, your lamenting over the same puts you in agreement with the troubled majority who are seeking a closure on the tragic loss of those nine patriots.

“Your Excellency, Sir, Malawians are, therefore, dutifully expecting you and your administration to go beyond mere lamenting over the deaths by quickly constituting an independent commission of inquiry over circumstances that led to the tragic accident”.

CDEDI letter explains further, “Your Excellency, Sir, we recognise Malawians constitutional right to read the sequence of meticulous reports of the turn of events stemming from the FBU preliminary report as a critical step towards finding a satisfying closure on the tragedy.

“But, elsewhere, the FBU report shows crystal clear cases of negligence, suppression of material facts and failure to adhere to laws and regulations governing the nation, we are shocked that till this hour no single
government official has been held accountable for their actions and/or failure to act”.

The letter adds further, “Your Excellency’s apparent lack of interest to act after the FBU preliminary report has clearly contradicted your own and your government’s narrative surrounding the plane crash, is too glaring to be ignored.

“It is our belief that this happening elsewhere in a truly transparent and accountable government heads would have by now rolled, including arrests”.

CDEDI demands, “On behalf of millions of Malawians that are tearfully seeking answers over the ill-fated plane, we demand that you act on the
following within two weeks (14 days); Institute a commission of inquiry into 10th June 2024 Chikangawa Forest plane crash, fire the Malawi Army chief General Valentino Paul Phiri for allowing the country’s Vice-President to travel on an aircraft that was a disaster-inwaiting and, also, for misinforming the nation that the Malawi Defence Force
could not locate the plane due to the thickness of the forest, a notion that has been contradicted by the FBU preliminary report.

“Fire Minister of Information and Digitalisation Moses Kunkuyu for providing a wrong government narrative on the accident.Fire the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority Director General Daud Suleman for initiating a hotline 261 calling for information leading to the location of the plane when, according to the FBU preliminary report, the site had a tower that gave signal”.

CDEDI letter adds, “The preliminary technical report revealed that four gadgets belonging to three passengers on the plane had their gadgets switched on, but also logged in.

“Your, Excellency, Sir, we dutifully wish to notify you that your failure to do the needful, in the interest of the nation, will leave us with no choice but to mobilise Malawians to respond to the same with peaceful demonstrations”.

Meanwhile, Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) has also endorsed proposals for inquiry on Chikangawa Forest plane crash.

Development, Malawi

Minister Abida Mia impressed with Salima-Lilongwe water project progress

Maravi Post Reporter

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Minister of Water and Sanitation, Abida Mia has expressed satisfaction with the progress made on the Salima-Lilongwe Water project.

Mia made the remarks after touring Khato Civils Water Treatment Plant in Lifuwu in Salima, along with the project sites, to inspect and appreciate the commencement and progress of the project.

She said the project has started on a high note and soon, the public will witness significant progress.

Mia however acknowledged that the project has faced challenges, particularly supply chain disruptions that contributed to the delays over the years.

“The project will improve water supply to the people of Salima, Dowa and Lilongwe. It is a huge milestone in solving water challenges ” she said.

Mia pointed out that fast tracking of the project will ensure that beneficiaries should start enjoying the fruits of the project without further delays.

Chief Executive Officer for Salima-Lilongwe Water Project Valentine Kaupa echoed Mia sentiments saying the project is making headway because all the machinery needed for the smooth execution is on site.

“Specialised machinery designed specifically for the water project is being used this shows our commitment to the level of precision and innovation being employed to ensure efficient delivery of the work,” he said.

Member of Parliament for Salima Central Constituency, Gerald Kapiseni Phiri said he is happy that the project has commenced, saying it has a huge economic impact on local communities.

The project is being implemented by Khato Civils and has been pegged at over 500 billion Malawi Kwacha (USD 315,000,000).

Thirty percent of the amount will be funded by the government of Malawi and 70 percent by private institutions.

Development, Malawi, Regional

Chakwera lands safely in New York for UNGA

Maravi Post Reporter

NEW YORK-(MaraviPost)-President Lazarus Chakwera has arrived in New York City, in the United States of America (USA) where he is scheduled to attend the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Ambassador for Malawi to USA Esmie Chombo, and Malawi Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Lieutenant General Clement Namangale (Rtd) welcomed President Chakwera on his arrival.

While in New York, the president will attend the Summit of the Future and the high-level meeting on the Miombo Forest Declaration.

Chakwera will also attend the high-level meeting on antimicrobial resistance and deliver a national statement during the UNGA and general debate to mobilise global support for Malawi’s developmental priorities.

In addition, the Malawi leader will hold bilateral discussions with other heads of state and governments, leaders of international organisations and investors among others to continue advancing Malawi’s diplomatic relations and economic partnerships towards implementing agriculture, tourism, mining (ATM)strategy and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

The President will also host the Malawi Partners Conference 2024 which will also bring together investors to discuss the future and long lasting food security in Malawi.

Malawi has been benefitting from these annual sessions as last year, President Chakwera signed, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact number two with the US Government.

The United General Assembly gathering provides an opportunity for world leaders to deliberate and urge cooperation on pressing issues and also lay out their prioritise for the coming year.

This year’s theme is being held under the theme: Leaving no one behind: Acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations

Human Rights

Ritual Killing By 16-Year-Old Indicates Moral and Educational Failures

Leo Igwe

  By Leo Igwe 

The attention of the Advocacy for Alleged Witches has been drawn to a horrifying case of ritual attack and murder in Lagos, Nigeria. This incident involves a 16-year-old teenager, Azeez Tajudeen, who lives in the Ijanikin area in Lagos. Tajudeen lured a 4-year-old child, named Ibrahim to a nearby primary school and murdered him. He stabbed and strangled the child to death. He removed the intestines, kidneys, and private organs. Tajudeen said that a man named Osho asked him to get him some human parts and promised to pay him fifty thousand naira(thirty dollars) for the service.

The Advocacy for Alleged Witches is outraged over the gruesome killing of this child and other instances of ritual attacks and bloodletting in the country. AfAW is aware of another case of ritual murder of a girl by the supposed boyfriend in another part of the country. These cases of ritual attack and killing are a clear demonstration of moral and educational failures. Skeptically oriented Nigerians must rise to the challenge of reorienting the public and promoting reason and scientific thinking.

At a time when Nigeria is going through an unprecedented economic crisis that has led to multidimensional poverty, stress and distress, despair, hunger, and uncertainties, one expects an increase in cases of ritual attacks. Many people are vulnerable; they could easily be lured to engage in ritual sacrifice and to explore purported ritual means of making money. More people are likely to embrace ritual money-making narratives or consult ritualists for some help. Ritualists and other self-acclaimed occultists will tell seekers of ritual money to go in search of human body parts. 

As in this case, those who cannot get the human parts would commission others to do so on their behalf. Some people are inclined to accept such assignments and undertake to attack and murder others in the quest to make some income.

The Advocacy for Alleged Witches warns the public to be vigilant at this time and to resist any temptation to indulge in money-making rituals, or to go in search of human body parts. It is a fact, as this case shows, that people attack and murder others for ritual purposes. It is a fact that people procure human body parts for rituals. It is a fact that people indulge in some money ritual sacrifice of human body parts. However, there is no evidence that these sacrifices yield money or wealth as popularly believed and often portrayed in movies such as Nollywood films or African magic. 

Ritual money or wealth is fiction and has no basis in reason, science or reality. As this case has illustrated, there is an urgent need to reeducate and reorient children and youths in the country. Superstition is destroying the moral fiber of the society. And it is the responsibility of this generation of Nigerians and Africans to end ritual attacks and sacrifice. Young people are often the victims and the perpetrators because they are socialized to believe that ritual money is real. Unfortunately, it is not. At home and in schools, children and youths are taught and told about the ritual processes of achieving success. They are made to think that ritual wealth is a fact. Hence, some youths are motivated to indulge in vicious attacks and murder other human beings, including their parents and relatives. Nigerian authorities need to encourage critical thinking in schools and society. They should get students to question and examine ritual money narratives and associated superstitions. Nigeria needs to execute an intense public education and enlightenment campaign and get the public to abandon ritual money beliefs and embrace critical thinking and science-based means of making money and acquiring wealth.

Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches.

Malawi, Regional, SADC

Presenting to the World Audience the Exciting Documentary “Nelson Mandela: The Road to Freedom”

Ufulu

On September 9, 2024, Moscow witnessed an important cultural and historical event – the unveiling of a monument to Nelson Mandela, symbolizing the recognition of his incredible contribution to the fight for human rights and the liberation from colonial oppression on the African continent.

The monument was created by the Russian Military-Historical Society with the support of the Moscow Government. The sculptor is Mikhail Baskakov. The monument is located at the intersection of Michurinsky Prospect and Ramensky Boulevard. The sculpture will become a new symbol of friendship between nations and Russia’s cooperation with South Africa and other African countries.

In honor of this event, the Russian-African Club of Lomonosov Moscow State University created a film that deeply reveals the life path and achievements of this legendary leader.

About the Film “Nelson Mandela: The Road to Freedom”

The film presented to the audience tells the story of Nelson Mandela not only as an outstanding statesman and political figure but also as a person whose life and struggle became a symbol of resilience and courage. Born in a small African village, Mandela, known in his youth as Rolihlahla – “the troublemaker”, carried a lifelong commitment to justice and equality, perhaps inherited from his great-grandfather – the renowned chief of the Thembu tribe.

From Early Childhood to Leadership

The film showcases Mandela’s life journey, from his youth when he was interested in sports and was shaping his personality, to the moment he became a globally recognized fighter against apartheid.

The Path to Struggle

How Mandela’s, ex-wife, Winnie, went from ‘shy country girl’ to political firebrand and international celebrity

At university, Nelson participates in the campaign of disobedience to unjust laws. In the 1950s, he deepens his philosophical views and strives to create a classless society, inspiring those around him with his belief in justice.

Transition to Decisive Actions

After the Sharpeville tragedy in 1960, Mandela and his companions understand that radical measures are required. In 1961, the armed wing of the ANC, “Umkhonto we Sizwe” (Spear of the Nation), is established, with Nelson becoming one of its leaders.

Unbroken Spirit and Legacy

After his arrest in 1962 and 27 years of imprisonment, Mandela’s iron will and adherence to principles remain unyielding. While in prison, he not only studies and writes but also inspires people worldwide with his courage and resilience.

Presidency

Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela, Transformational Leader

In 1994, Mandela becomes the first black president of South Africa, focusing on racial reconciliation and social improvements. Improving education and healthcare were his priorities. He peacefully hands over power in 1999.

Public Activities

After his presidency, Mandela fights against HIV/AIDS and supports charitable projects. His foundations actively work in education and healthcare. Mandela continues to participate in international affairs and remains a symbol of the fight for human rights.

The Film’s Concept

The creators of the film sought to create a deep and comprehensive portrayal of Nelson Mandela – the man, the patriot, the leader. His principles of justice and goodness continue to motivate youth around the world, and for his merits, he received the people’s name “Madiba”, meaning “the beloved one”.

We offer viewers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the history of the life and triumph of one of the most significant leaders of the 20th century.

The film is available on the YouTube channel of the Russian-African Club of Lomonosov Moscow State University in Russian, English, and French at the following links:

– EN: https://youtu.be/Z5gSBAAwGTE  

– EN: https://vimeo.com/1010352873?share=copy

– FR: https://youtu.be/97JiJjhC8Go

– FR: https://vimeo.com/1010328662

Politics

Comrade Ntanyiwa of Limpopo FM Challenges MCP Over 2025 Election Integrity

Burnett Munthali

By Burnett Munthali

Comrade Ntanyiwa, a well-known radio personality from Limpopo FM and host of the popular program Nkhanga Zaona, has stirred controversy with a bold challenge to the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP). In a viral audio clip circulating on social media, Ntanyiwa declared that no matter how much money the MCP plans to spend or how hard they try, they will not be able to rig the 2025 elections. He further claimed that the party is destined to lose, and that a new government will be formed after the elections.

In the audio clip, Ntanyiwa did not mince words as he accused the MCP of plotting to manipulate the upcoming elections. He warned that the party’s efforts would be in vain, asserting that the people’s choice cannot be suppressed. According to Ntanyiwa, the electorate is ready to reject the ruling party, and any attempts to rig the elections will fail.

“Let them use as much money as they want; let them try every trick they know,” Ntanyiwa said in the clip. “The MCP will lose at all costs, and we will see a new government in 2025.”

Ntanyiwa’s platform, Nkhanga Zaona, has gained a strong following for its outspoken criticism of government policies and candid discussions on pressing national issues. As host, Ntanyiwa has not shied away from challenging powerful figures and holding the government accountable, earning him a reputation as a voice for the people. His show often tackles topics ranging from governance to corruption, making him a prominent figure in Malawi’s political discourse.

The remarks have sparked heated debate across the political landscape. Supporters of the opposition have hailed Ntanyiwa’s comments as a brave stand against alleged government interference in the electoral process. Many believe his bold statement reflects widespread dissatisfaction with the MCP’s leadership.

On the other hand, loyalists of the MCP have dismissed Ntanyiwa’s allegations, calling them unfounded and inflammatory. Some have accused him of using his platform to promote an anti-government agenda, while others maintain that the party is committed to upholding democracy and will not engage in any form of election rigging.

With less than two years to the next general elections, political tensions are rising. Ntanyiwa’s public challenge has intensified the scrutiny on the Malawi Congress Party, as opposition figures and civil society groups demand greater transparency in the election process.

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) will play a crucial role in ensuring the elections are free and fair. As political temperatures rise, it is clear that the 2025 elections will be a battleground not just for political parties but for the integrity of the country’s democratic processes.

As host of Nkhanga Zaona, Comrade Ntanyiwa has once again positioned himself as a vocal critic of the ruling government. His challenge to the MCP underscores growing concerns about electoral integrity in Malawi, setting the stage for a contentious election season. Whether his predictions will come true remains to be seen, but the debate around election rigging and fairness is sure to dominate conversations as the country inches closer to 2025.

Business, Malawi

“Put right people in right positions to fix ailing economy”- Dr Kabambe tells Chakwera

MaraviPost

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The former Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) Governor Dr Dalitso Kabambe has retaliated the need for President Lazarus Chakwera to put right people in right positions in his administration to correct the economic mess.

Dr Kabambe who is also UTM Party presidential aspirant told Times TV Exclusive interview that incompent public servants have contributed to Chakwera’s Tonse Alliance administration ailing economy.

“You always get the right mechanics to fix the broken vehicle. There are wrong people in key public offices. This is the reasons we are in this economic mess.

“These incompetent individuals dont have the crue how to get the correct modalities to fix the ailing economy,” observes Dr. Kabambe.

The former RBM governor added that Malawi is suffering from deep financial cancers including fiscal, monetary and exchange rate which need competent individuals.

Dr. Kabambe’s observation comes as the centre Bank has lost its mandate on managing exchange rate amid scarcity of forex, high inflation and interest rates.

Malawi inport cover is below three months.

Currently, inflation has soared to 33.2% while interests rate hovering at 27% making it difficult to do business in Malawi.

When Dr. Kabambe was at the helm of Malawi Central Bank, Malawi Kwacha against America Dollar was pegged at MK750, inflation 13% and interests rates was single digit.

Business, Malawi

Airtel Malawi’ customers base hits 7.6 million

Maravi Post Reporter

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s smartphone services provider Airtel Malawi’s customer base has reached 7.5 million with mobile data users at 2.5 million

The customer base has increased by 12.3% as of June 30, 2024.

The company’s financial report issued on September 18, says average revenue per user per month (ARPU) increased by 23.6% to K 2,743 driven primarily by sustained growth in usage across both voice
and data services.

“Data traffic increased by 41% as demand for data services remains strong with data usage per data customer of 5.3 GB per month,” reads the report in part.

On financial performance, the company says revenue grew by 37.1% to K117,857m, driven by broad-based growth across all business segments, reflecting the resilient demand for these essential services.

Reads the report, “Resilient demand for both voice and data services supported a 29.2% growth in voice revenue, and a 53.7% growth in data revenues”.

Assures Airtel, “We continue to focus on keeping communities and businesses connected in Malawi and supporting the Malawian economy.

“The medium-term growth opportunity in Malawi remains attractive, with the telecommunication sector continuing to benefit from population growth and an increased need for connectivity”.

Adds Airtel, “We remain focussed on executing our strategy to increase mobile penetration in Malawi through continued investment into under-served rural markets and driving increased data coverage to further enhance the digitalisation of the Malawian economy.

“We and the Malawian economy, remain exposed to FX volatility, continued scarcity of foreign currency and unfavourable agricultural output in the past season. Despite these headwinds we will focus on the growth in customers and revenues through continued network investment and cost optimisation initiatives to limit the macro-economic challenges currently evident across the country”.