Tag Archives: Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (Magla)

Business

MAGLA advocates responsible gambling advertising to protect children

MaraviPost

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) has emphasised the need for responsible gambling advertising, saying measures introduced under Directive No. 1 of 2025 are aimed at protecting children and vulnerable groups.

MAGLA Director General Racheal Mijiga told a stakeholder meeting in Blantyre on Tuesday that the directive also maintains a balance between economic activities in the gaming and media sectors on one hand and the social dimension on the other for long term sustainability of the gaming industry and humankind.

Under the directive, gambling-related advertisements are only permitted to air between 21:00 hours and 06:00 hours to limit exposure among children.

The stakeholder engagement brought together media representatives, gaming operators, the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), and other stakeholders.

Mijiga said the directive places clear restrictions on gambling advertisements to reduce children’s exposure.

“Children represent the future workforce and leadership of Malawi, making it necessary for regulators and businesses to ensure they are protected from harmful exposure to gambling-related content,” said Mijiga.

She added that businesses must consider the environment in which they operate, the wellbeing of society, and the ethical standards guiding how products and brands are communicated to consumers.

“These considerations must be placed first before profits if we are to achieve long term success,” said Mijiga.

Mijiga explained that the directive was issued to gaming operators and not directly to broadcasters.

She added that the directive was developed after concerns were raised by various stakeholders, including Members of Parliament, church organisations, and parents who had called for stricter controls on gambling advertising.

However, she said MAGLA opted for a balanced approach rather than a complete ban.

“As a society, we must find a balance between economic activity and social responsibility. Businesses, including radio stations, also need to make money, but we must consider the long-term impact on our human capital,” said Mijiga .

She added that adults who wish to access gambling advertisements can still do so during the permitted hours.

“Anyone who is an adult can still access these adverts after 21:00 hours. However, our priority going forward is to protect the future leaders of this country and the most vulnerable members of our society,” she said.

Meanwhile, President of the Media Institute of Southern Africa Malawi (MISA Malawi), Golden Matonga,  welcomed the engagement and said dialogue between regulators and the media industry was necessary to find practical solutions.

“I thank management of MAGLA for honouring our request for this engagement. We believe in media freedom, but we also believe in responsible media practice.

“We cannot simply turn a blind eye to the harmful effects that may arise from our work,” he said.

Business

Trade Minister Partridge hails MAGLA on responsible gambling initiatives

MaraviPost

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Minister of Industrialisation, Business, Trade and Tourism, George Partridge, has commended the Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) for its proactive leadership in promoting the responsible growth of the gambling industry while safeguarding young people and strengthening investor confidence.

The Minister made the remarks on Thursday during a strategic engagement with MAGLA management, which included a familiarisation tour aimed at deepening his understanding of the Authority’s operations, regulatory mandate, and strategic priorities.

Speaking during the engagement meeting, Partridge, said MAGLA’s approach demonstrates a strong commitment to balancing revenue generation, tourism development, and social responsibility, noting that gambling, when well regulated, can contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic growth.

“Gambling is an experience for both local and foreign consumers. It complements our tourism products and attracts more consumers, and when they spend more, government also benefits through increased revenue,” said Partridge.

He then applauded MAGLA for taking deliberate steps to address the social risks associated with gambling, particularly the protection of children and vulnerable groups.

“As a regulator of gambling, one of the major challenges is the negative effects of gambling on society and on children. We wanted to understand what MAGLA is doing to minimise these negative effects, and this is an area they are taking seriously,” he said.

The Minister also acknowledged operational challenges facing the Authority, including limitations in office infrastructure, and assured that government is aware of the impact such constraints can have on effective service delivery.

“They are operating from converted residential houses and are scattered across different locations, which makes administration a bit difficult. These are genuine concerns that government has taken note of,” said Partridge.

Commenting on the Minister’s visit, MAGLA Director General, Rachel Mijiga, described it as a strong show of government support for the gaming industry.

“We are grateful to the Minister for visiting MAGLA and for the guidance he has provided on how we can take the industry forward, particularly on responsible gambling and sustainable growth,” said Mijiga.

She said MAGLA is engaging betting operators on concerns surrounding the newly introduced betting tax and is working closely with key stakeholders to ensure a balanced approach.

“We are gathering insights from operators and will engage the Ministry of Finance and other stakeholders to arrive at a win-win situation for government, investors and the people of Malawi,” she said.

Looking ahead, Mijiga said MAGLA is projecting 60 percent growth in the gaming sector in the new financial year and will intensify responsible gambling initiatives.

“We will partner with responsible gambling agents and engage parents, guardians and school principals to ensure that under-18s do not participate in gambling,” she said.

She also highlighted the media’s role as a key partner in public awareness.

“The media shape public opinion and help us reach the youth and the wider public. They are a critical stakeholder in promoting responsible gambling,” said Mijiga.

Business, Law and order

MAGLA destroys 24 illegal gaming machines in Lilongwe crackdown

MaraviPost

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) has destroyed 24 illegal gaming machines following a court order against a Chinese operator who was running an unlicensed operation at the Lilongwe Game Complex.

The Lilongwe Senior Resident Magistrate Court fined the operator MK1 million and ordered the destruction of the machines.

The exercise was witnessed by representatives from the court, Malawi Police Service, Lilongwe City Council, and the media.

MAGLA’s actions are part of its efforts to regulate the gaming industry and protect consumers from unlicensed operators.¹

MAGLA has been cracking down on unlicensed gaming operators, warning that operating without a license is illegal and can result in severe penalties.

The authority has published a list of licensed gaming and lottery operators in Malawi, urging the public to only engage with these approved operators to avoid risks like unfair gaming practices and financial losses.

The destruction of the illegal machines demonstrates MAGLA’s commitment to enforcing gaming laws and ensuring a safe, regulated gaming environment in Malawi.

Business

MAGLA boosts NPL Mothers’ Fun Run initiative with MK20 million 

MaraviPost

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) has donated MK20 million towards this year’s Nation Publications Limited (NPL) Mothers’ Fun Run, scheduled for October 2025.

Initially, MAGLA planned to donate MK15 million to the cause, but after learning that the initiative clocks 20 years this year, they adjusted the amount to K20 million at the venue on Wednesday. 

Speaking after handing over the cheque, MAGLA Director General, Racheal Mijiga, commended the initiative for its significant role in advancing safe motherhood in the country.

“We have seen improvements in both infant mortality and maternal deaths. Mothers are the backbone of society, and children’s early development is critical. It is therefore important for individuals and companies to contribute towards safe motherhood for the sustainability of Malawi,” she said.

NPL Editor, Aubrey Mchulu, applauded MAGLA’s continued support, saying their contributions have been instrumental over the years.

“We are very thankful for this donation. MAGLA has been a consistent partner, and this will go a long way in helping us move closer to achieving zero maternal deaths in the country,” said Mchulu.

Over the years, the initiative has supported several district hospitals and health facilities with essential maternal and neonatal care equipment and for this year, the donation will support the Kasungu District Health Office and 25 satellite facilities in the district.

Items to be procured include delivery beds, oxygen concentrators, suction machines, and other maternity essentials.

Business

MAGLA supports IMM annual conference with MK20 million

MaraviPost

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) has given K20 million to the Institute of Marketing in Malawi (IMM) in support of their upcoming annual conference scheduled for October 23 to 26 in Salima.

Speaking during the cheque presentation ceremony in Blantyre on Friday, MAGLA Director General, Rachel Mijiga, said the partnership was a natural fit, aligning with the authority’s second mandate of promoting tourism and marketing Malawi as a destination of choice.

“As the Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority, we are proud to partner with the Institute of Marketing in Malawi for this year’s conference. One of our key mandates, beyond regulation, is the promotion of tourism—promoting and marketing Malawi as a destination of choice,” said Mijiga.

She emphasised that the conference, which is attracting strong participation from across the SADC region, presents a significant opportunity for ‘Brand Malawi’ to be marketed beyond its borders.

“This is an opportunity to position the country as the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’ and a hub for culture, nature, and investment opportunities. Marketers have a central role in shaping perceptions about Malawi both locally and globally, and IMM is the perfect institution to lead in telling Malawi’s story and showcasing its natural wealth,” said Mijiga.

IMM Vice President Twikale Chirwa hailed MAGLA for the timely gesture, saying it not only supports the conference but also reflects on its commitment to advancing Malawi’s identity and the marketing profession.

“This year’s conference will take place under the theme, ‘In the Face of Disruption: Be Bold, Be Different, Be Remarkable.’ It is a bold and unique call to action for marketers to rethink their strategies, challenge convention, and seize new opportunities,” said Chirwa.

He highlighted MAGLA’s sponsorship of the new segment, ‘Showcasing Malawi’s Charm’.

The segment, is a panel discussion designed to explore how Malawi’s beauty, talents, and cultural richness can be harnessed to provide solutions for national development and to position the country both regionally and globally.

“IMM’s mandate is to place marketers in positions of influence, enabling them to create narratives and design experiences that elevate Malawi’s brand. By being bold, different, and remarkable, we can reposition Malawi not just as the Warm Heart of Africa but as a country with unmatched charm, talent, and opportunities. Your support, MAGLA, strengthens this vision,” said Chirwa.

Boxing, Sports

MAGLA flies Masamba to Tanzania for a fight

MaraviPost

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) has supported boxer Limbani ‘Lion’ Masamba with air tickets and upkeep for an international non-title fight against Iddy Pialali at Posta Kijitonyama Club in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania on Saturday.

The super welterweight pugilist returns into the ring for a PST Welterweight Championship three months after defeating another Tanzanian boxer, Hashim Kiranga through Technical Knockout.

MAGLA Public Relations Officer (PRO), Nancy Malata said they decided to sponsor Masamba considering his impressive form as Malawi’s top boxer in the Super Welterweight category.

“Over 5,000 people are expected to patronize the game and if he performs well, Malawi will be placed on the map. So, we are so excited to support our boxer and expect him to perform well at the tournament,” she said.

Masamba was rated 15th in Africa in the latest African Boxing Union (ABU) Super Welterweight rating released this month.

“I am so grateful to MAGLA for the support. This is the kind of support we have been longing for a long time. I was supposed to travel by bus which could have led to fatigue and affect my fight, but now I don’t have any excuse. This support motivates me to work hard as I also aim to improve my rating both at home and in Africa,” he said.

The Blantyre-based boxer boasts of a record of 30 fights, with 17 wins, 9 knockouts, 13 loses, and no draw, while his opponent has played 48 fights, won 37, 25 knockouts, lost 13, and one draw.

He left the country on Tuesday through Chileka International Airport in Blantyre.

Business

MAGLA supports Zomba Mountain fun walk, hike with MK5m

MaraviPost

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) has given K5 million to the Public Relations Society of Malawi (PRSM) to support the Zomba Mountain Fun Walk and Hike scheduled for this coming Saturday.

The event is a fundraising initiative aimed at conserving the Mulunguzi Dam and preserving the Zomba Mountain ecosystem, currently experiencing alarmingly low water levels, raising concerns about potential water shortages and environmental degradation in the area.

Speaking after presenting the cheque on Monday, MAGLA’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Nancy Malata, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

“As MAGLA, we believe in supporting initiatives that promote environmental conservation. The declining water levels in Mulunguzi Dam pose a serious threat to the livelihoods of the people of Zomba, and we commend PRSM for taking action and we saw it fit to partner with them in this meaningful cause,” said Malata.

She emphasized that collaborative efforts such as this are crucial in protecting vital natural resources and ensuring long-term sustainability for communities.

PRSM vice president, Rachael Kalera Mhango, expressed gratitude for the support, noting that the donation will significantly enhance their capacity to mobilize resources and raise awareness.

“We are in an era where environmental conservation is no longer optional—it’s urgent. For us to drive change, we need resources. MAGLA’s sponsorship not only empowers our operations but also strengthens our advocacy efforts as we rally Malawians around this important cause,” said Mhango.

The Zomba Mountain Fun Hike will begin at the Gymkhana Club and end at Mulunguzi Dam and is expected to draw participants from across the country, including Blantyre, Lilongwe, and Mzuzu.

Business, Development

MAGLA donates curtains to QECH maternity ward

MaraviPost

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) has donated MK6.7 million worth of curtains to Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH) maternity wing and other assorted items worth MK1.4 million to mothers in the ward.

Speaking in an interview after inspecting the installed curtains on Friday MAGLA Director General Rachel Mijiga said the Authority felt compelled to support the hospital’s need to bring dignity and respect in the labor ward.

“The Hospital reached out to us saying there was a great need for curtains in the maternity wing cubicles to observe the dignity of mothers when giving birth. So, we felt compelled to come in and support the hospital as you have seen the numbers, every 51 minutes a new baby is born which is not easy for the medical staff.”

“The curtains that covered the maternity ward and the cubicles cost K6.7 million and we also got salt, wrappers, bar soap, and buckets for the newborn babies costing us K1.4 million,” said Mijiga.

In her remarks, QECH Midwifery Specialist at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Christina Chapotera-Mbiza thanked MAGLA for donating the curtains.

“These curtains will help us to provide the dignity of the mothers by promoting respectful maternity care and privacy in all the 24 beds in the labor ward. Normally on average per day, we have about 30 deliveries, and as a referral hospital most of these deliveries are complicated,” said Mbiza

Environment

MAGLA supports Dzenza community environmental initiative with MK10 million

MaraviPost

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) has supported the Dzenza Mountain environmental sustainability initiative with K10 million to purchase tree seedlings and beehives for environmental conservation.

The donation was requested by the community at the foot of Dzenza mountain in the area of Senior Chief Kaphuka in Dedza district.

Speaking at a tree planting ceremony at Kasina Seminary ground on Friday, MAGLA Director General Rachel Mijiga said the support aligns well with their mandate of contributing to environmental sustainability.

“We have been motivated and inspired by Inkosi ya Makosi Gomani V’s leadership in environmental sustainability by encouraging citizens and collaborating with institutions. This is very important because trees give us air and fruits, and also combat climate change. So, it is the responsibility of all of us to come in and contribute to the reafforestation of our beautiful mountains in Malawi.”

“This year we have invested K30 million towards such initiatives. Out of this amount, K10 million was given to this area, and in January we were in Nkhata Bay where we contributed K20 million towards tree planting,” said Mijiga.

In his remarks, Inkosi ya Makosi Gomani V thanked MAGLA for coming through with the donation.

“On behalf of the community at Dzenza, we are thankful because we know and understand the importance of the environment and how it is important to conserve it.

“We need the environment more than it needs us. Today marks a new beginning where we are partnering with the community and we shall continue to do this year in, year out, until we reach our goal,” said Gomani V.

In 2023 MAGLA also partnered with the Maseko Ngoni in the Muonekela Mountain hiking experience.

Business

Journalists gain insights on responsible gambling in MAGLA Training

MaraviPost

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA), in collaboration with Bwaila Media Club (BMC), on Friday conducted a media training aimed at bridging the information gap on responsible gambling, at The Forty-Four Hotel in Lilongwe’s Area 44.

The event attracted 40 journalists from the Central Region to enhance their understanding of the gambling sector and promote responsible gambling.

Speaking at the training, MAGLA’s Director of Operations, Lawrence Chikoko, emphasized the critical role of the media in raising awareness about responsible gambling.

“Media is the fourth estate, as it is commonly known. Whatever we are doing, we are not doing it in the darkness, it is for the public to know. Involving the media is the best way to disseminate what we are doing,” said Chikoko.

He highlighted the growth potential of the gambling industry, particularly in low and middle-income countries like Malawi, citing a World Health Organization (WHO) report that associates this growth with increasing smartphone usage.

However, Chikoko stressed the importance of educating the public about the recreational nature of gambling.

“We need awareness that gaming is leisure. We’ve noticed that especially among the youth, due to unemployment and lack of activities, they spend too much time gambling. Everyone should know there are limits to how much one can gamble.”

“We started an awareness campaign in the southern region, moved to the eastern region, and now we are in the central region. These campaigns focus on the dangers of excessive gambling, underage gambling, and the availability of help for those with gambling addictions. We are in partnership with St John of God HospitallerServices which provides treatment for individuals struggling with gambling addiction,” said Chikoko

Bwaila Media Club Vice Chairperson Cathy Maulidi expressed gratitude to MAGLA for organizing the training, noting that it has bridged significant information gaps in the sector.

“This training has provided an opportunity for us to learn about the legal framework guiding gambling in Malawi. Many of us did not know that there are mechanisms to control gambling, such as self-exclusion tools. Now, we are equipped with knowledge to share with our communities and report violations like underage gambling,” said Maulidi.

She acknowledged the importance of the training in empowering journalists to educate the public and hold stakeholders accountable.

“We have been seeing children accessing betting shops, which we now understand is illegal. Moving forward, we will report such incidents to ensure adherence to the law,” added Maulidi.

The training underscored MAGLA’s commitment to fostering a safe and regulated gambling environment while partnering with the media to amplify responsible gambling messages across Malawi.