Tag Archives: Comoros

AMA, Health

Newly released 2025 scorecard unveils progress and setbacks on health and gender equality across Southern Africa

MaraviPost 1 Comment

Geneva, Switzerland, 26 February 2026- /African Media Agency (AMA)/- The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has launched its biennial scorecard, a critical tool that tracks progress on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) across its 16 Member States. New data, including from demographic health surveys, shows great strides in improving the sexual and reproductive health of people across the region, while in other areas, concerted efforts are urgently needed.

The SADC scorecard offers a regional snapshot of progress towards the implementation of the SADC SRHR Strategy and SRHR targets of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on health and gender equality. First developed in 2019, the scorecard serves as a social accountability tool and uses a “traffic light” system to track 20 indicators.

The scorecard highlights improvements in reducing adolescent birth rates and the vertical transmission of HIV, while sounding the alarm on a rise in sexually transmitted infections and the need for investments to further reduce maternal mortality:

Lowered Adolescent Birth Rates: Twelve Member States recorded a decline in adolescent births, which can be attributed to the high roll-out of life-skills HIV and comprehensive sexuality education in primary schools.

Decline in HIV infection rates: The region has seen a decline in new HIV infections, however, the latest scorecard suggests that the rate of reduction in new HIV infections amongst adolescent girls and young women aged 15 – 24 years is slowing in seven countries. This could be partially linked to a rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in half of the countries and a decline in condom use in a majority of countries.

Reduction in Maternal Mortality: Six countries recorded significant reductions in maternal mortality, based on their latest national health data. This can be attributed to the priority given by the region to reduce maternal mortality, which needs to be sustained in order to preserve the gains made.

Strong progress in the decrease in the vertical transmission of HIV: Twelve Member States are on track to meet the SDG target by 2030, five of whom already achieved the milestone in 2025. Despite this success, children and adolescent girls and young women are lagging behind in receiving HIV services.

In addition to the abovementioned gains, the scorecard also identified areas where concerted efforts are needed:

Family Planning: Eight Member States are not meeting the contraceptive needs of women. Investing in the contraceptive needs of women and adolescent girls can further reduce teen pregnancies and preventable maternal deaths, and ensure their contribution to their country’s economic growth and development.

Gender-Based Violence: Sexual and intimate partner violence remains persistently high across all Member States in the SADC region. Though all countries have made progress in putting in place relevant laws and policies, greater investments are required to ensure their implementation, including the integration of SRHR, HIV and GBV services, so that all survivors are able to ensure their health and well-being.

Domestic financing: No SADC country has met the ‘Abuja Declaration’ target of allocating 15% of their national budgets to health. Four countries have allocated more than 10% of their national budget to health. Countries need to accelerate domestic funding given declining donor investments if progress is to be made in achieving Universal Health Coverage, and to reduce out of pocket expenditures for citizens.

“The true power of this 3rd Milestone Scorecard lies not merely in what it measures, but in the action it demands from us. With only five years to 2030, we must move with urgency, we need to accelerate implementation, scaling what works, and we need to support our commitments with bold, measurable, and accountable actions,” said Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, Minister of Health, Republic of South Africa.

“Investing in sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) is no longer just a public health issue; it is a fundamental economic imperative. Research has shown us that every dollar invested in family planning, particularly among the youthful population, can yield up to $100 in long-term economic benefits, yet our chronic underfunding and reliance on external aid actively sacrifices our demographic dividend. Political leadership must translate into urgent, domestic financial mobilization that meets the 15% Abuja target. Our greatest challenge is the paralysis between policy commitment and real-world execution. The SADC scorecard and mid-term review of the SADC SRHR strategy reinforces that Member States need to reform restrictive national laws, enforce gender-based violence and child marriage legislation, and fully integrate SRHR into climate adaptation plans to build truly resilient, rights-based health systems,” reaffirms H.E. Mr. Elias Mpedi Magosi, Executive Secretary of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Since 2018, the joint United Nations Regional Programme, 2gether 4 SRHR, composed of UNAIDS, UNFPA, UNICEF and WHO, has supported SADC to develop, implement and monitor the SADC SRHR strategy and its scorecard, with funding from the Government of Sweden.

“The leadership of the SADC Ministers of Health and the Secretariat, guided by the SADC SRHR Strategy, is demonstrating tangible results: reduced adolescent birth rates, fewer maternal deaths, and decreased rates of HIV. These must be celebrated and safeguarded. However, the 2025 scorecard is a stark reminder that these gains are fragile. Without continued commitment and increased domestic investments, these gains risk being undone. As a long standing partner to SADC, the 2gether 4 SRHR programme remains committed to using the scorecard findings and working with Governments in areas where the region and countries are lagging behind.

Collectively, we must do better to ensure that all people can exercise their sexual and reproductive health and rights and that young people can achieve their full potential, so that everyone can contribute to the economic and social development of the region,” highlights Lydia Zigomo, UNFPA Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, on behalf of the Regional Directors of the 2gether 4 SRHR programme.

“Despite our successes, we now risk a two-speed region where gaps in family planning, HIV prevention, and gender equality strand 94 million adolescents without the wellbeing they need to drive the economic and social development of SADC. To avoid this, all Member States must invest urgently and in sustained ways in adolescent SRHR as a foundation for all SRHR,” concludes Jonathan Gunthorp, Executive Director, SRHR Africa Trust.

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of World Health Organisation.

Notes to editors:

The SADC scorecard is published every two years and tracks 20 indicators across SADC Member States, including information on rates of maternal and neonatal mortality, adolescent birth rates, family planning, HIV infections and treatment, STIs, including HPV, number of health facilities offering SRHR services and schools offering sexuality education, as well as number of health workers and budget allocated to health. The scorecard also tracks key legal issues which impact on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Milestones were set for 2025 and the scorecard’s traffic light system indicates green for progress and red for regression, against a baseline set in 2019.

Explore the scorecard

The SADC SRHR Strategy (2019 – 2030) serves as a policy and programmatic framework for Member States to ensure that all people in SADC enjoy a healthy sexual and reproductive life, have sustainable access, coverage, and quality SRHR services, information, and education; and can fully realize and exercise their SRHR. The 16 Member States in SADC include: Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

About 2gether 4 SRHR:

2gether 4 SRHR is a joint United Nations Regional Programme, in partnership with Sweden, which brings together the combined efforts of UNAIDS, UNFPA, UNICEF and WHO to improve the sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) of all people in Eastern and Southern Africa. For more information and for a one-stop-shop of information and resources in Africa, visit the SRHR Knowledge Hub.

The post Newly released 2025 scorecard unveils progress and setbacks on health and gender equality across Southern Africa appeared first on African Media Agency.

Travel & Tourism

Zimbabwe stole the spotlight in a blaze of colour, flavor and rhythm at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris

Maravi Post Reporter

Zimbabwe stole the spotlight in a blaze of colour, flavor and rhythm at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris

May 22, 2025
Zimbabwe stole the spotlight in a blaze of colour, flavour and rhythm on Tuesday at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris during Africa Week, captivating global delegates with a powerful cultural showcase. The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Patron of Tourism, Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, undertook a tour of awe-inspiring exhibitions and led a distinguished visit to the Zimbabwean stand, accompanied by the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Hon. Barbara Rwodzi and Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to France Dr. Sekai Nzenza.
The Zimbabwe stand burst to life with vibrant traditional dances, melodic instruments and striking fashion, but it was the irresistible gastronomy that sparked a frenzy. Guests lined up to savour signature Zimbabwean dishes such as sorghum sadza, Kariba bream, Zim gastro sausage, haifiridzi, madora and peanut butter biltong, while traditional beverages like seven days brew and maheu refreshed and delighted. The Zimbabwean stand quickly became the heartbeat of the event, its warmth and authenticity leaving a lasting imprint on every visitor. As part of her cultural diplomacy efforts, the First Lady also toured other African country exhibitions including Tanzania, Sudan, Nigeria, Niger, Uganda, Mozambique, Mauritius, Ethiopia, Guinea, Ghana, Gabon, Mali, Comoros, Congo Brazzaville and Angola. The strong showing by Zimbabwe reaffirmed the nation’s position as a leading cultural and culinary tourism destination in Africa.
AMA, Business

Africa’s oceans under spotlight as OceanX and OceanQuest conclude seminal ‘Around Africa Expedition’

Maravi Post Reporter
  • Nearly 150,000km² of seafloor surveyed across the Mozambique Channel, Madagascar Ridge, Agulhas Plateau, and Cabo Verde
  • 69 scientists from 31 countries and 29 institutions successfully conducted deep-sea dives, geological and biodiversity sampling, and oceanographic research in seven key regions around the African coastline
  • 306 students, educators, and early-career professionals from across Africa and the world engaged through training, outreach, and capacity sharing initiatives on the OceanXplorer research vessel
Early Career Explorers Aghogho Kolawole-Daniles and Omaima Mouiret working on their independent research in the DNA lab on OceanXplorer off the coast of West Africa

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, 9th May 2025 -/African Media Agency(AMA)/ – A transformational joint exploration led by OceanX and OceanQuest has officially concluded the ‘Around Africa Expedition’, a major ocean research and capacity-sharing mission advancing deep-sea research, oceanographic mapping, and scientific collaboration across Africa’s coastal waters.

The expedition navigated critical marine regions, starting from Moroni (Comoros Archipelago) and navigating through the Mozambique Channel, the southern Madagascar Ridge (Walters Shoal), Agulhas Plateau (Africana Seamount), Cape Town (South Africa), the Benguela Current System in the southeastern Atlantic, Walvis Bay (Namibia), Mindelo and the Nola Seamounts in Cabo Verde, and ending in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands (Spain). 

Conducted between January and April, the expedition delivered significant insights and new valuable data about Africa’s marine ecosystems, surveyed vast areas of previously unexplored seafloor, and strengthened Africa’s leadership in ocean science through international collaboration and capacity sharing.

Scientists handle a sample from the sub in the wet lab

Expedition Scope and Key Achievements 

Researchers conducted extensive fieldwork including remotely operated vehicle (ROV) dives, oceanographic sampling, biodiversity surveys, and high-resolution seafloor mapping, unlocking new insights into Africa’s marine ecosystems. 

OceanXplorer, the expedition’s advanced research vessel, completed eight ROV dives, totalling 21 hours underwater, including the first-ever visual surveys of the deep flanks of Walters Shoal and a newly mapped seamount at the southern Madagascar Ridge, as well as the Nola seamounts off Cabo Verde. Submersibles Neptune and Nadir executed nine dives, collecting 41 biological and geological samples across 32 hours of deep-sea exploration.

In total, nearly 150,000km² of seafloor was mapped across regions including the Madagascar Ridge, Agulhas Plateau, and Cabo Verde’s Nola Seamounts, providing vital data for deep ocean science and discovery, marine spatial planning, and conservation opportunities. “This is not just a scientific achievement, but a continental one,” says Vincent Pieribone, co-CEO and Chief Science Officer for OceanX. “The knowledge gained here belongs to Africa and will benefit research and scientific communities for generations to come.”

Group photo of the Young Explorers and OceanX Crew on the OceanXplorer, off the Coast of Southern Africa

Key Findings During the ‘Around Africa Expedition’ 

Two segments of the expedition were dedicated to deep-sea missions, designed to advance the understanding of the biological, geological, and oceanographic processes shaping the seafloor and ecosystems of the Southwest Indian Ocean and the eastern Atlantic. By investigating remote seamounts, surveying deep habitats, and analysing ocean dynamics, the teams generated critical baseline data to support marine conservation, sustainable resource management, and adaptation to climate change impacts.

As African nations increasingly recognise the critical importance of healthy ocean ecosystems for economic development, environmental security, this research provides essential knowledge and tools to inform more sustainable marine governance across the continent.

Key outcomes included:

  • The high-resolution mapping of seamounts and the surrounding seafloor, vital for fisheries, biodiversity, and habitat protection
  • Detailed analysis of ocean currents to better understand regional climate patterns
  • Analysis of marine microbes and aerosols, which play key roles in ocean food chains, carbon storage, and climate regulation, contributing critical data to global ocean health research

“The opportunity to conduct deep-sea research alongside an international team, with African scientists leading key legs, was a turning point,” said Dr. Lara Atkinson, Marine Offshore Scientist at NRF-SAEON. “For many of us, it was the first time we had access to this level of deep-sea technology and interdisciplinary collaboration among so many nations.”

“Being part of this expedition felt like reclaiming our own narrative in ocean science,” said Dr. Yara Rodrigues, Executive Vogal at Instituto do Mar. “We weren’t just collecting data, we were shaping the future of marine knowledge in Africa, based on our needs, in our waters.”

Their involvement was part of a broader collaboration between OceanX, OceanQuest, and leading African institutions. These included the National Research Foundation – South African Environmental Observation Network (NRF-SAEON), the University of Cape Town (UCT), the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), the Instituto do Mar (IMar) in Cabo Verde, the Ocean Science Center Mindelo (OSCM), and the Universidade Técnica do Atlántico (UTA). This strengthened scientific partnerships and promoted data sharing across the continent. 

“These collaborations are the future of ocean science in Africa,” said Pieribone. “We’ve seen what’s possible when scientists, governments, and regional institutions align behind a common purpose-advancing knowledge, access, and opportunity.”

Researchers arriving aboard the OceanXplorer in Comoros, East Africa, pose for a photo on deck with the OceanX crew

Science Diplomacy and Regional Leadership

The expedition also marked a series of significant diplomatic milestones, with visits from South Africa’s Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Dion George and Minister of Tourism Patricia De Lille, Cabo Verde’s Minister of the Sea Jorge Santos and the President of the Republic of Cabo Verde, José Maria Neves. As Patron of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, President Neves reaffirmed Cabo Verde’s strong commitment and leadership in advancing ocean knowledge, marine conservation, and sustainable blue development. 

‘These high-level engagements’, says Martin Visbeck, Chief Executive Officer of OceanQuest, ‘underscored regional commitment to ocean science and sustainability, enhanced cooperation across the continent, and demonstrated both Africa and Cabo Verde’s growing leadership in addressing the most pressing challenges facing our oceans.’

Local scientist Yara Rodrigues from IMar and OceanX Science Program Director, Mattie Rodrigue, process a sample of a coral colony full of brittle stars, Cabo Verde

Capacity Sharing and Education

A major pillar of the expedition, focused on strengthening African scientific and technical capacity through targeted education and professional development programmes. Led by OceanX education, the expedition was structured around three core components. These included two deep-sea science legs focused on seamount research, two youth-led investigator legs, and two ECOP training legs. 

The mission featured outreach programmes at port stops to engage local communities:

  • Early Career Explorers (ECEs) Programme: 27 Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs) from across Africa, including Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Mozambique, Angola, Cabo Verde, Tunisia, Morocco, and Tanzania, took part in multi-day, on-ship education programmes between Walvis Bay, Mindelo, and Las Palmas, gaining hands-on experience in oceanography, bathymetry, and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis. Participants were selected by the Partnership for the Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO) through a programme jointly run by OceanX, OceanQuest, and POGO.
  • Young Explorers: 29 university students who are interested in future ocean-related careers joined the multi-day, on-ship education programs from Maldives to Comoros and from Cape Town to Walvis Bay, learning about the multi-disciplinary career paths that can support ocean health and sustainability. 
  • Science-Leg ECOP Participation: Four African ECOPs were embedded within research science legs, contributing directly to fieldwork in South African and Cabo Verdean waters.
  • Portside Ship Tours: 246 students and educators participated in shipboard tours and outreach events across Cape Town, Mindelo, and Las Palmas, introducing new generations to marine science careers and ocean stewardship.
  • Total engagement: 306 students, educators, and early-career professionals were reached through the expedition’s training and outreach programs.

“This wasn’t just about what we discovered in the ocean. It was also about who we empowered on the ground,” adds Martin Visbeck, CEO of OceanQuest. “By working together across borders, we have made this kind of world-class science possible right here in African waters and led by African scientists.”

The OceanX and OceanQuest Around Africa Expedition is officially endorsed by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development for its contributions to capacity sharing and scientific understanding of the ocean, providing valuable data for science and science-based ocean governance.

Next Steps 

Although the expedition at sea has concluded, analysis of the collected data has only just begun. Scientists across Africa and globally will use the expedition’s findings to:

  • Inform environmental and ocean management policy
  • Support fisheries regulation and marine conservation, and
  • Strengthen Africa’s leadership in ocean science and sustainable development

“This is just the start,” said Pieribone. “We’ve built the foundation for a new age of African-led research, and now the real impact begins. Our goal is that the discoveries made, and the partnerships formed during this expedition will continue to shape policy, support conservation efforts, and inspire the next generation of ocean explorers.”

Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of OceanX and OceanQuest.

A full list of NGO, education, and government partners across the region and mission leg follows below:

Mindelo, Cabo Verde

Instituto do Mar (IMar), the Ocean Science Center Mindelo (OSCM),Instituto de Engenharias e Ciências do Mar (ISECMAR) – Universidade Técnica do Atlântico, Centro Universitário Cidade Verde (UniCV), Universidade do Mindelo, Escola Salesiana de Artes e Ofícios (Ilha de São Vicente), Escola Secundária Januário Leite (Ilha de Santo Antão), Escola Técnica João Varela (Ilha de Santo Antão).

Cape Town, South Africa

SANBI, National Research Foundation, Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) – Science for Kids and Global Blue Schools Network, University of Cape Town, University of Western Cape, Stellenbosch University, Cape Peninsula University of Technology

Las Palmas, Canary Islands, Spain

Oceanic Platform of the Canary Islands (PLOCAN), Consejeria de Educacion (Canary Islands Regional Government), IES Profesor Antonio Cabrera Pérez, ITS Jozef Stefan.

Global 

UN Ocean Decade – Endorsed Decade Actions, Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO), Ocean Biomolecular Observing Network (OBON), Challenger 150, Deep-Ocean Stewardship Initiative (DOSI) 

Regional 

Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation, African Network of Deep-water Researchers, Challenger 150 

United States 

City College of New York (CCNY), Columbia University Climate School – Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory (LDEO), US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), US State Department, US Office of Naval Research (ONR), Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)  

Route-Specific Partnerships by Country/Transit locations: 

Comoros to Cape Town, South Africa 

National Research Foundation – South African Environmental Observation Network (NRF-SAEON), South African National Biodiversity Insitute (SANBI), South African National Space Agency (SANSA), National Research Foundation – South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (NRF-SAIAB), University of Cape Town (UCT), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Université de Toliara – Institut D’Enseignement Supérieur D’Anosy (IES-Anosy) – Madagascar, Université de Toliara – Institut Halieutique et des Sciences Marines (IHSM) – Madagascar, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Madagascar, Universidade Lúrio – Mozambique, Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) – Mozambique, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES) – Brazil, Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) – Kenya, Universidade de Aveiro – Portugal, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) – Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Columbia University – Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory (LDEO) – USA, Challenger 150 

Namibia – Cabo Verde; Cabo Verde Science  

Instituto Do Mar (IMar), Campus do Mar, Universidade Técnica do Atlântico (UTA), Campus do Mar, Ocean Science Center Mindelo (OSCM), GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research – Germany, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) – Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, South African National Biodiversity Insitute (SANBI) – South Africa, Universidade do Vale do Itajaí (UNIVALI) – Brazil, US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO) 

Cabo Verde – Las Palmas de Gran Canaria 

Plataforma Oceánica de Canarias (PLOCAN), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research – Germany, Columbia University Climate School – Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO) 

About OceanX

OceanX is on a mission to support scientists to explore the ocean and to bring it back to the world through captivating media. Uniting leading media, science, and philanthropy partners, OceanX utilizes next-gen technology, fearless science, compelling storytelling, and immersive experiences to educate, inspire, and connect the world with the ocean and build a global community deeply engaged with understanding, enjoying, and protecting our oceans. OceanX is an operating program of Dalio Philanthropies, which furthers the diverse philanthropic interests of Dalio family members. For more information, visit www.oceanx.org and follow OceanX on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and LinkedIn.

About OceanQuest

OceanQuest is a Saudi Arabian not-for-profit foundation, committed to unveiling the wonders of the ocean and exploring its secrets for the benefit of humanity. Its mission is to accelerate ocean discovery, drive innovation in the field, support global cooperation, and excite the public. OceanQuest and its global partners will launch a new era of deep ocean exploration and knowledge sharing. OceanQuest is based in the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) campus in Thuwal, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To learn more visit www.OQFoundation.org.

For Media Inquiries Contact

Amy Minnie

Account Manager

African Media Agency (AMA)

oceanx_ama@africanmediaagency.com

Source : African Media Agency (AMA)

Sports

Flames blaze to victory: Malawi’s national team triumphs over Comoros in CHAN qualifier

Maravi Post Reporter

By Twink Jones Gadama

In a thrilling display of skill and determination, the Malawi national football team, the Flames, ignited their CHAN qualification campaign with a resounding 2-0 victory over Comoros at the Bingu National Stadium.

The triumph marked a stellar debut for head coach Kalisto Pasuwa, who showcased his tactical acumen and leadership prowess.

As the match unfolded, the Flames demonstrated a clear intent to dominate proceedings, with their attacking quartet posing a constant threat to the Comorian defense.

The breakthrough arrived on the stroke of halftime, courtesy of Binwell Katinji’s precision header, which was expertly assisted by MacDonald Lameck’s pinpoint cross.

The second half witnessed the Flames continue to assert their authority, with their midfield trio dictating the tempo of the game.

Despite the Comorians’ valiant efforts to mount a comeback, the Flames’ defense remained resolute, repelling wave after wave of attacks.

The victory was sealed in the dying embers of the match, as Zebron Kalima clinically dispatched a scoring opportunity to send the Flames’ faithful into raptures.

Pasuwa’s influence on the team was palpable, as the Flames exhibited a cohesive and attacking brand of football that has been absent in recent times.

The team’s passing was crisp and incisive, while their movement off the ball was intelligent and well-coordinated.

The Flames’ defense, marshaled by the imperious presence of their goalkeeper, was equally impressive, repelling the Comorians’ attacks with ease.

The victory marked a significant milestone for the Flames, as they secured their first win in a CHAN qualifier since 2014. Pasuwa’s debut success also set a new benchmark for Flames coaches, as he became the first to secure a victory in his inaugural match.

“I’m absolutely thrilled with the outcome,” Pasuwa exclaimed in the post-match press conference. “The team’s performance was outstanding, and I’m proud of the way they executed our game plan. We’ll now focus on preparing for the return leg, which promises to be an equally challenging encounter.”

The return leg is scheduled to take place on March 8, 2025, at the same venue, the Bingu National Stadium.

The Flames will be seeking to build on their momentum and secure a spot in the next round of the CHAN qualifiers.

As the Flames bask in the glory of their triumph, their fans are eagerly anticipating the return leg, buoyed by the team’s resurgence under Pasuwa’s stewardship.

With their victory, the Flames have rekindled hopes of a successful CHAN campaign, and their supporters will be eagerly awaiting the next installment of their qualifying journey.

Malawi, Regional, Sports

Zambia’s Chipolopolo shot down Comoros at Heroes stadium

Maravi Post Reporter

…………Zambia 2-1 Comoros

Comoros in white

By Edwin Mbewe

LUSAKA-(MaraviPost)-Substitute Klings Kangwa goal at 88th minute at Heroes Stadium in the Capital Lusaka has earned Zambia the Chipolopolo Boys vital 3 points in AFCON 2023 group H qualifiers against resilient Comoros Island who seem to come for the party.

The visitors scored early at 13th minute through Abdullah Raffidine.

Fashion Sakala nearly equalized at 20th minute but his effort was saved by Ahamada Ali Nadhoim.

The host Zambia who struggled in controlling the ball and seem to be always second on the ball in this half, kept pushing for an equalizer but nothing materialized until 40th minute.

As the half promised to end in a draw, Zambia Captain Enock (the Computer) Mwepu scored at 45th minute to put the matters at parity.

However, Chipolopolo boys came a changed side in the second half after realizing that they lost 1-3 away in Abidjan against Ivory Coast and that they needed nothing less than a win at Heroes Stadium.

They kept Comoros Island under siege.

Head Coach made several changes to make sure that they image Heroes at Heroes Stadium, Emmanuel Banda paved way for Klings Kangwa, Kelvin Mubanga replaced Edward Chilufya.

The changes paid dividend to the Chipolopolo boys as Klings sneaked a late winner for the home team at 88th minute with a powerful bullet from a free kick.

The win means Zambia have corrected their first vital 3 points in their AFCON 2023 group B qualifiers.

The 2012 Continental showpiece Champions were humbled by the 2023 host nations Ivory Coast 3-1 in their opener.

Their next match is against Lesotho in September, Group H has Ivory Coast, Comoros Island and Lesotho.

Malawi

Malawi’s national team mentor Mwase names COSAFA Provisional squad

Maneno Chimulala
Malawi Flames coach Mwase

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)—Flames coach Meck Mwase has named a 39-man provisional squad that will go in camp at the Mpira Village in Blantyre on Monday June 28,2021 in preparation for the 2021 COSAFA Cup to be held in South Africa next month.

According to information sourced from Football Association of Malawi (FAM) website, Mwase has recalled strikers Zicco Mkanda and Muhamad Sulumba and Mozambique based midfielder Ndaziona Chatsalira who last played for the Flames in 2017, 2019 and 2014 respectively.

Chatsalira, a player who became very popular due to a rare K6 million local deal, is one of the four players who play outside the country in the squad alongside Taonga Chimodzi, Schumacker Kuwali, Khuda Muyaba and Dennis Chembezi.

Fam also indicates that Nyasa Big Bullets striker Hassan Kajoke, who was recently dropped on disciplinary grounds, has also found his way back into the squad.

Mwase has also given maiden call ups to 10 players who are enjoying good form in the TNM Super League.

They include goalkeepers Christopher Mikuwa of Mighty Tigers and Nyasa Big Bullets’ Richard Chimbamba; Red Lions defender Pilirani Thulu; Midfielders Anthony Mfune, Chikondi Kamanga, Lackson Mwale, Blessings Mpokera and Micheck Seleman and strikers Thoko Harrison and Gadik Chirwa.

The Flames are in COSAFA’s group B alongside defending champions Zambia, Madagascar and Comoros.

The team will leave for South Africa on Monday July 5 and will start their campaign against Madagascar on July 7, 2021.  

 The following is the full squad:

GOALKEEPERS

  1. Brighton Munthali              – Silver Strikers
  2. Enerst Kakhobwe               – Nyasa Big Bullets
  3. William Thole                      -Wanderers
  4. Christopher Mikuwa            – Tigers
  5. Richard Chimbamba            – Nyasa Big Bullets

DEFENDERS

  1. Stanley Sanudi                    – Wanderers
  2. Nickson Nyasulu                 – Nyasa Big Bullets
  3. Paul Ndhlovu                      – MAFCO
  4. Peter Cholopi                      – Wanderers
  5. Erick Kawonga                    – Nyasa Big Bullets
  6. Gomezgani Chirwa              – Nyasa Big Bullets
  7. Nickson Mwale                    – Silver Strikers
  8. Pilirani Thulu                      – Red Lions
  9. Dennis Chembezi                – Polokwane City

 MIDFIELDERS

  1. Chimwemwe Idana              – Nyasa Big Bullets
  2. Mike Mkwate                       – Nyasa Big Bullets
  3. Rafick Namwera                  – Wanderers
  4. Duncan Nyoni                     – Silver Strikers
  5. Yamikani Chester               – Wanderers
  6. Chikoti Chirwa                   – Red Lions
  7. Vitumbiko Kumwenda        – Wanderers
  8. Chikondi Kamanga             – Silver Strikers
  9. Micium Mhone                   – Blue Eagles
  10. Patrick Banda                – Ekwendeni Hammers
  11. Lackson Mwale               – CIVO
  12. Anthony Mfune               – Karonga United
  13. Misheke Selemani           – Nyasa Big Bullets
  14. Blessings Mpokera          – Nyasa Big Bullets
  15. Taonga Chimodzi           -Omon Aradippou
  16. Ndaziona Chatsalira       -Ferreviario de Nacala

STRIKERS & WINGERS

  1. Hassan Kajoke                    – Nyasa Big Bullets
  2. Maxwell Phodo                    – Silver Strikers
  3. Stain Davie                         – Silver Strikers
  4. Sulumba Muhamed            – CIVO
  5. Gadik Chirwa                      – Blue Eagles
  6. Ziko Mkanda                       – Nyasa Big Bullets
  7. Thoko Harrison                   – Karonga United
  8. Khuda Muyaba                   – Polokwane City
  9. Schumacker Kuwali            – UD Songo
Malawi, Sports

Malawi drawn alongside defending champions Zambia in COSAFA Cup

Maneno Chimulala
Flames players

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)—Malawi have been drawn alongside defending champions Zambia in group stages the 20th edition of the COSAFA Cup slated for July 7–18 at Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa.

The Flames are in Group B, alongside Comoros Islands and Madagascar.

Six-time winners Zimbabwe have been drawn alongside west African guest nation Senegal.

It is a tasty clash that will ignite the imagination in what is arguably a Group of Death that also includes Mozambique and 2015 COSAFA Cup winners Namibia.

Hosts South Africa also have an intriguing group that includes neighbours Lesotho, Botswana and Eswatini. Bafana Bafana and Botswana have long been foes in this regional competition.

Only the top team in each group and the best placed runner-up will advance to the semifinals in what is a change in formation for the tournament this year.

That means each side is guaranteed three games up to a maximum of five, which will provide vital preparation for those national teams involved in 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers later this year.

The COSAFA Cup is making a comeback after the event was cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It will be hosted in Nelson Mandela Bay for the first time, which has been a familiar home for other COSAFA competitions in recent years.

The 19 previous editions of the competition have seen some great performances and incredible games that have been written into the folklore of Southern African football, but only five nations can claim to have lifted the coveted trophy.

Zimbabwe (six wins) lead the way, followed by Zambia (five), South Africa (four), Angola (three) and Namibia (one).

Mozambique, Malawi and Botswana have all twice been finalists, but ended up on the losing side on both occasions. Lesotho (2000) are the only other team to reach the decider.

2021 COSAFA CUP DRAW:

GROUP A
South Africa
Lesotho
Eswatini
Botswana

GROUP B
Zambia
Malawi
Madagascar
Comoros

GROUP C
Senegal
Zimbabwe
Mozambique
Namibia

Regional, Sports

Comoros secure historic Nations Cup qualification

Maravi Post Reporter

Comoros made history on Thursday when drawing 0-0 at home to Togo to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time.

The match may have been low on incident but that will matter little to the island nation of just under one million inhabitants.

For they are now celebrating one of the biggest achievements of a country which has been more famous for its history of political coups and music than any sporting success.

Wild scenes of celebration broke out on the final whistle as fans, players and politicians celebrated the shock qualification for next year’s finals in Cameroon.

Comoros had never won a major qualifier until 2016 when they beat Botswana in what was their 20th attempt to win either a Nations Cup or World Cup qualifier.

 

Five years on, they are top of Group G – featuring record African champions Egypt no less – with three wins and two draws from their five matches.

Although Kenya can catch Comoros on nine points, they cannot overtake them courtesy of the Harambee Stars’ inferior group record against the islanders.

Even before this qualifying campaign began, expectations were low that the Coelacantes could sit at Africa’s top football table – but they have achieved the feat with a game to spare.

Much of the credit will go to Amir Abdou, national coach since 2014 and whose insistence on bringing in players from the diaspora to play for the team has revolutionised their fortunes.


“I think I was the only professional when I arrived in 2010,” captain Nadjim ‘Jimmy’ Abdou, formerly of Millwall and AFC Wimbledon, told BBC Sport Africa before the game.

“We were 5 or 6 expatriates at the time. It’s clear that we started from the bottom but year after year, with the addition of other professionals, the whole organisation became more professional.”

Prior to this match, defender Said Bakari credited coach Abdou for his insistence on playing football on the floor given the fact that few of the national team players are – in his words – ‘tall [and] strong’.

The Netherlands-based defender had also said it would be ‘magical’ for Comoros to reach the Nations Cup where they can expect to face some of the giants of African football.

“The Nations Cup is huge,” rapper Alonzo told BBC Sport Africa. “There are some big countries which are really, really great in terms of football. It would be huge to face these big nations of the continent.”

Later on Thursday, Kenya host an Egyptian side who need to avoid defeat to clinch the second qualifying place on offer from Group G.

In the sixth and final round of qualifiers on Sunday, Egypt host Comoros while Kenya travel to Togo.

Egypt’s Africa Cup of Nations trophy missing

Source: BBC Sports

Source

Health, Lifestyle, Opinion

Meet six African countries without COVID-19 case; Sao Tome and Principe, Malawi, Comoros, Lesotho, South Sudan….What is the Secret?

Lloyd M’bwana

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-As the whole world battles coronavirus which the world health organization had declared a global pandemic, with some countries reporting several deaths daily as a result of the same, some African counties have however not reported even a single case.

Countries like Sao Tome and Principe, Malawi, Comoros, Lesotho, and South Sudan have not reported symptoms of the virus.

The major question is, what have they done differently to shield this deadly virus from piercing their boundaries?

South Africa leads in the continent with approximately 1326 cases of coronavirus with numerous deaths reported

Kenya has recorded 59 confirmed cases as on Tuesday, March 31, 2020 with 1 person losing to it and another giving hope by recovering.Kenyan President Uhuru

Uganda has on Tuesday recorded 11 new cases who are all children bringing the total number to 44. Uganda’s president, however, noted that mass testing would be expensive and therefore asked people to go for tests only when they have symptoms.

The president had imposed a curfew from 7 pm to 6.30 am to contain the spread of the virus.

Even as China reports to have managed the virus with no new cases reported, America on the other side is stranded, with the number of confirmed cases growing each day and deaths follow.

President Trump has been forced to announce a lock down on the capital Newyork which has been the epicenter of the virus.COVID-19 medical equipment

Most probably the African countries that have not reported the cases took caution in time and the public followed strictly.

Could there be any other way other than washing of hands, sanitizing and social distancing?

Give us your views.