By Burnett Munthali
KASUNGU- (MaraviPost)-
Vice President Dr. Jane Ansah has thanked Chief Lukwa for the warm welcome in Kasungu, reflecting on her past work with the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) and her ongoing connection with the community.
Ansah emphasized her inclusive role as Vice President, saying she believes Chief Lukwa invited her because of her position, serving everyone in Malawi from Chitipa to Nsanje.
There’s a fake prophet who falsely accused Ansah of forming her own political party. She responded, “I’m always quiet but I’m not stupid. I’m not a coward but one day I will speak out and you will hear me,” hinting at frustrations with critics.
Ansah pushed back against those questioning her political credentials, asking, “Do you really know who Jane Ansah is? Some people say I’m not a politician… show me who a real politician is.” She highlighted diverse backgrounds of politicians.
The Vice President criticized young critics, saying most false prophets are young, almost her children’s age, emphasizing her experience. She shared learnings from Kasungu, praising local agriculture and community hospitality.
Ansah shared her story of competing with bright students (akafula) in school, stressing, “We should not allow circumstances define us.” She cited Chagoma, an akafula who recently excelled academically, illustrating resilience.
The Vice President commended the Ufulu Girls Foundation for empowering girls through education. She encouraged communities to support such initiatives and include individuals with albinism in development efforts.
Ansah emphasized self-reliance, saying, “We may help with handouts… but we want people to stand independent after being uplifted.” She thanked Chief Lukwa and the community for gifts, leaving with a message of empowerment.
Chief Lukwa welcomed Ansah to Chidzenje Primary School, presenting her with two goats and a cooler box of honey as a symbol of appreciation.
The chief expressed his desire for Ansah to visit the farm factory, but cited the poor road network as a significant obstacle.
Jailos Bonongwe, of the opposition MCP, welcomed Dr. Ansah, saying God used the late President APM to appoint her to her role. He encouraged her to focus on her duties and ignore criticism.
Bonongwe praised President Mutharika as a good leader, but noted some individuals around him are trying to damage his reputation. He thanked Chief Lukwa for his leadership in the area.
Yusuf Nthenda of the Dr. Jane Ansah Foundation welcomed Ansah, highlighting the foundation’s work with vulnerable groups, including the handicapped, individuals with albinism, orphans, and the aged.
Nthenda emphasized the foundation’s focus on empowering communities rather than providing handouts, aiming to make them self-sufficient.
Director of the Ufulu Girls Foundation shared the organization’s story, from its founder’s struggles to empowering over 21 girls, with 18 successfully passing.
The foundation thanked Chief Lukwa for his support and appealed to Dr. Ansah to consider supporting their cause, specifically requesting a hostel for the girls.