MANAonline
Communities vow to restore the environment in Balaka
By Mary Makhiringa
Balaka November 19, Mana: Community members around Chimpakati in Balaka pledged to commit themselves to restoring the environment under Climate Smart Enhanced Public Works Programme (CS-EPWP).
Visiting the area, one can easily see the urgent need for restoring the environment for vegetative cover after deforestation and the need to improve soil fertility as the landscape is largely barren and dry making it vulnerable to natural disasters due to irresponsible human activity.
Speaking on Monday during a media tour, Hilda Andrew, from Namikombe Village and a member of the Catchment Management Committee (CMC), said her community has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including food shortages.
“We were introduced to the programme four years ago through a pilot project, and during that period, we managed to establish several forests, and built features like swales, which have had a significant and positive impact in our area.
“This year, we aim to plant 10,000 trees. As of now, we already have 7,976 seedlings ready to be planted as soon as the rains begin and we hope to expand the forests in this area,” she added.
According to Andrew, the community plans to plant trees that will help to improve soil fertility in their fields, saying over the years, the area has experienced destructive runoff and excessive soil erosion at the expense of food crop production at the household level.
Dyson Donald, another community member, said that communities identified four key areas for reforestation.
“We have witnessed the importance of conserving the environment,” he added, citing a forest that took four years to offer vegetative cover thereby testifying significance of agroforestry.
“In addition, we can harvest honey from the beehives we put in the forest,” according to Donald.
Grive Sanjula who is also Group Village Headman Chimpakati disclosed that local leaders have made a strong commitment to continue conserving the environment by planting more trees.
“At first, we were skeptical about the effectiveness of the project. We now see tangible benefits and we have fully embraced it,
“We are not only working and being economically empowered, but we are also transforming our area. It feels like we are being rewarded for working on projects that directly benefit us, which is a rare and valuable opportunity,” he said.
MWASIP enhances environmental conservation practices
By Milcah Mathias and Petro Mkandawire
Blantyre, November 19, Mana: District Commissioner for Blantyre, Alex Mdooko on Tuesday presided over Malawi Watershed Services Improvement Project (MWASIP) open day, which was meant to highlight various activities that are implemented under the project in the districts to restore the environment.
Speaking during the open day at Kunthembwe Youth Resource Centre, Traditional Authority Kunthembwe in Blantyre, Mdooko appealed to community members to play an active role in conserving the environment.
“We need a better world. Let us participate in activities that are meant to conserve the environment without waiting for donors to fix our environmental problems.
“MWASIP is there to help us protect our environment. We must restore the environment and practice good farming practices that should contribute to the economic growth of the country," said Mdooko.
He therefore advised community members to adopt family planning methods, saying family planning methods help to control family sizes, considering that rapid population growth puts huge pressure on natural resources including high rates of deforestation.
Senior Chief Kunthembwe expressed gratitude for MWASIP, saying apart from mobilizing communities to adopt improved soil and water conservation technologies, the project improved income at household level through matching grants that help community members to run small-scale businesses thereby reducing charcoal production and other forms of deforestation.
“Many people in the community adopt technologies in soil conservation, I will encourage fellow members to continue implementing activities under MWASIP even after the project phases out because the project is really a life changer,” the senior chief added.
Some of the activities that spiced up the event included drama performances, testimony by one of the lead farmers and cinema displays of what MWASIP does in the district.
Blantyre District MWASIP Coordinator, Owen Malimba said that activities under MWASIP in the catchments have been impressive because the participating communities managed to surpass half of the targets, which were supposed to be achieved by the end of 2026.
“We focus on capacity building, and we have structures that are put in place across catchments which are there to carry over after the project phases out," said Malimba.
He therefore advised communities in the catchments to continue conserving the environment to minimize climate change effects.
MWASIP is a government of Malawi project with funding of the World Bank implemented in Blantyre, Neno, Zomba, Machinga, Mangochi, Ntcheu and Balaka districts.
NPC collaborates with MUST to promote Malawi 2063 vision
By Alinafe Kapatamoyo and Charles Nkhoma
Lilongwe, November 19, Mana: The Malawi National Planning Commission (NPC) and the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the implementation of Malawi’s 2063 Vision, particularly the First 10-Year Implementation Plan (MIP-1).
Speaking at the event in Lilongwe, Director General of NPC, Dr. Thomas Munthali, emphasised that the MIP-1 aims to elevate Malawi’s economic status and help the country achieve most of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
He highlighted the importance of national collaboration in driving industrialization, which is a core objective of the plan.
“This MoU will facilitate the effective implementation of the plan, as MUST has the necessary infrastructure and human resources to support its success,” Dr. Munthali stated.
He further stressed the need for Malawi to focus on exporting finished products rather than just raw materials, to boost the country’s economic growth.
In her remarks, Vice Chancellor of MUST, Prof. Address Malata, noted that the university’s role extends beyond producing graduates; it also aims to drive innovation and contribute to the country’s transformation.
“We must utilise the talents of our graduates to transform Malawi in key areas such as industrialization, innovation, and technology,” said Malata.
She further added that MUST have introduced new manufacturing engineering programs to support the goals of the 10-Year Implementation Plan.
The Malawian government is committed to positioning the country as a leading producer by 2030, and this partnership with MUST is seen as a vital step in achieving that vision.
Stakeholders intensify voter registration awareness in Rumphi
By Thula Chisamba
Rumphi, November 19, Mana: With just three days left before the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) concludes its second phase of Voter Registration, stakeholders in Rumphi have intensified voter registration awareness amidst low turn-up of potential voters to register themselves.
Speaking Tuesday at Bumba Teachers’ Development Centre, Executive Director of Better Change Organization, Chiponosko Mkandawire advised the youth on the need for them to get registered for them to vote on September 16, 2025.
“Youth need to participate in the affairs of the country, hence the need for all young to patronize voter registration centres so that they enjoy their civic right in the country's decision-making processes,” said Mkandawire.
The Chairperson for Rumphi Urban Youth Network, Madalitso Chipeta also urged young people to come up with plausible solutions for the low turn-up of potential voters during the voter registration exercise.
The efforts aim to address the low voter registration turnout in the district, which locals attribute to a lack of awareness and timing.
Meanwhile, Chidumba Mkandawire, the incumbent legislator for Rumphi Central Constituency, launched an awareness campaign on Monday, urging people to visit registration centers and register.
The second phase of registration commenced on Saturday, November 9 and is expected to be concluded this Friday, November 22, 2024.
Malawi goes to polls on September 16, 2025, to choose a president, legislators and councilors.
Paramount Chief Kyungu recommends chiefs' involvement in SCTP beneficiary enrollment
By George Mponda
Karonga, November 19, Mana: Paramount Chief Kyungu of Karonga has advised that Chiefs should be actively involved in the re-targeting exercise for the beneficiary enrollment of the Social Cash Transfer Programme (SCTP) to ensure efficiency.
Kyungu emphasized the importance of chiefs' involvement in the re-targeting exercise for SCTP locally known as 'Mtukula Pakhomo' during a consultative council meeting in Karonga Tuesday where it was revealed that 8062 households will be enrolled.
"Involving local leaders in the re-targeting process can help ensure that the benefits reach those who need them most. We know who the elderly, chronically sick, and child-headed homes are and we can ensure the creation of an accurate list and make the intervention a success," Kyungu said.
"Initially, officials who were implementing the interventions just went straight into the villages to identify the so-called beneficiaries and they ended up enrolling households which do not deserve to be on the list," he added.
On his part, Karonga District Council (KDC) Chairperson Bellium Msukwa assured Karonga residents that they are going to ensure that only deserving beneficiaries will be enrolled.
"This time around, with the involvement of various stakeholders at council and village levels we will use a beneficiary selection mechanism based on simple, undisputable, verifiable categories such as children, chronically ill and persons living with disabilities," Msukwa said.
According to Principal Social Welfare Officer for KDC Tionge Mbale, they will be categorically re-targeting beneficiaries in line with the SCTP 5-year strategy which aims to enhance the quality of life and resilience for the poorest of the poor and others affected by shocks and lifecycle vulnerabilities.
TEVETA, MUST signs MoU to spearhead skills development
By Tikondane Vega
Lilongwe, November 19, Mana: Technical, Entrepreneurial and Vocational Education and Training (TEVET) Authority in conjunction with Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to spearhead skills development in the country.
The signing ceremony that took place at TEVETA Offices in Lilongwe was done by the boards of the two institutions as well as their management.
TEVETA Executive Director, Elwin Sichiola said the MoU has specific formal areas of operations between the two entities namely mentorship, coaching, technical services for commercialization of technologies, developing selected programmes for TEVETA institutions, operationalizing a trainer of trainers and upskilling programme for TEVET sector as well as developing a TEVET Graduate MUST entry qualification framework among other important areas.
He said the MoU was aimed at addressing challenges of the 21st century that require innovations as solutions adding they are also bridging the gap of academic excellence.
“This is more than a document rather it’s a skills development strategy that has been aligned with the demand on the market. As the world is evolving, Malawi is ready to compete on a global scale. The MoU will benefit even those who dropped at the primary school level but are doing different innovations.
“Our core objective is to increase employability and self-employment opportunities available to young TEVET graduates and out-of-school youth with special attention to gender, equity, and environmental principles,” Sichiola said.
MUST Vice Chancellor, Prof. Address Malata said her school believes in making a difference and improving the lives of people in the country hence the partnership with TEVETA has opened the pathway for growth to everyone regardless of education status.
She said MUST believe each level of education is important saying the MoU would help the school to build young people with necessary skills.
“We have been discussing this issue for almost two years with TEVETA and I am happy with today's milestone that is also key to achieve Malawi 2063 agenda and Sustainable development goals.
“At MUST, we have five years’ strategic plan and partnership with institution like TEVETA is key to achieve the objectives of the strategic plan. If you look carefully the two institutions works for same goal,” Malata added.
Chakwera hails Global fund for humanitarian aid
By Sheminah Nkhoma
Lilongwe, November 19, Mana: President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has expressed gratitude to Global Fund for humanitarian support they provide saying it is a valuable partner to Malawi.
Speaking on Tuesday during the official opening of the 52nd Global Fund Board meeting, at Bingu International Convention Center (BICC), Chakwera said Malawi appreciates the impact of the work which Global Fund is doing.
He said that Malawians have been able to access free medical services in public hospitals due to the partnership between Malawi and the Global Fund.
“ Global Fund, has dedicated its funds to combating HIV, tuberculosis (TB) and malaria this shows the significant role it has played in Malawi's healthcare progress,” said Chakwera.
He further said, that during natural disasters which affected the country, Global Fund was there to provide all necessary assistance to the affected victims.
In her remarks, Chairperson for Global Fund Board, Roslyn Morauta said there is a need for more efforts to defeat HIV, TB and Malaria.
Morauta stated that, despite countries facing various challenges such as natural disasters, they have made significant progress in addressing critical health issues.
“We have to commit ourselves in the fight against HIV, TB and Malaria so that we have a free generation,” said Morauta.
On his part, Assistant Director-General for Universal Health Coverage, Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases at the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Jérôme Salomon, highlighted the importance of building partnerships as funding becomes increasingly scarce due to global economic challenges.
“It is important for countries to be sharing stories in combating diseases, as it helps to build resilient communities,” he said.
At the meeting President Chakwera toured pavilions, showcasing various impactful projects that have received support from the Global Fund.
Malawi and Global Fund have been in a relationship since 2003.
NBM donates K5 million towards Parliament Week
By Prisca Promise Mashushu
Lilongwe, November 19, Mana: The National Bank of Malawi (NBM) has donated K5 million to support preparations for Parliament Week, during which parliamentarians plan to donate essential materials to Malingunde School for the Blind as part of their celebrations.
Speaking at the donation ceremony held at the Parliament Building in Lilongwe on Tuesday, NBM’s Service Centre Manager for Lilongwe, Moreen Gwengere, emphasized the bank’s commitment to initiatives that impact Malawians positively.
“It was imperative for us to contribute to this initiative as it targets Malawians, who are not only crucial in electing our leaders but also our valued customers,” she said.
Gwengere noted that NBM aligns its corporate social responsibility with its mission to provide inclusive financial solutions while delivering sustained stakeholder value.
“National Bank of Malawi believes in giving back to the community. Supporting initiatives like Parliament Week, which promotes social and economic development, resonates with our values. We are delighted to hand over K5 million towards the donation for Malingunde School for the Blind,” she said.
Head of Planning Services at Parliament, who also Chairperson of the Parliament Week organizing committee, Lovemore Monyongo, expressed gratitude for the donation, noting its significance in addressing preparation needs.
“We have received overwhelming support from various partners, including the National Bank of Malawi. We have been in close contact with the school management, who provided us with a list of requirements needed for this initiative,” said Monyongo.
Parliament Week serves as an opportunity for legislators to engage with citizens and give back to communities, embodying their role as representatives of the people.
Advocates call for reforms in mining industry
By Temwa Kalea
Karonga, November 19, Mana: District Coordinator for the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) under the Karonga Diocese, Obert Mkandawire has called for the reformation of Karonga districts mining industry, citing workers’ low wages and poor working conditions as challenges being faced.
Speaking Tuesday at a mining Indaba organized by CCJP, he emphasized that addressing these issues was not only a moral obligation but a key factor in ensuring the industry's long-term viability.
"Workers in the mining sector have expressed growing frustrations regarding their compensation and safety conditions, which has sparked calls for systemic changes within the industry," Mkandawire said.
He urged mining investors to adopt a more humane approach by prioritizing employee welfare, asserting that improvement in these areas is crucial for building a productive work environment and fostering trust between workers and management.
Principal Secretary responsible for Regulation at the Ministry of Mining, Martin Kaluluma Phiri reiterated the government's commitment to safeguarding local communities' rights and ensuring that they receive fair benefits from resource extraction.
"Regulations that promote equitable treatment of workers and sustainable economic growth through ethical practices are very crucial towards achieving the Malawi 2063 which government has set as a priority sector for realizing wealth creation," he said.
Karonga District Environmental Officer Khumbo Mbeye underscored the pressing need for environmental stewardship in the face of mining activities.
"Indeed, there are already ongoing efforts aimed at minimizing the ecological footprint of mining operations and we are advocating for a balanced approach that takes into account both economic development and environmental protection.
“This holistic perspective aligns with a growing international emphasis on sustainable mining practices, reflecting a shift away from exploitative models," he said.
Participants at the Indaba which started with a parade from Karonga roundabout included local community members, labor representatives, and government officials.
‘No Shave November’ campaign against prostate cancer
By Petro Mkandawire
Blantyre, November 19, Mana: Executive Director for Cancer Survivor Quest. Chikhulupiliro Ng'ombe has urged Malawian men to join hands in observing, No Shave November to bring awareness and raise money towards the fight against prostate cancer.
In an interview with Malawi News Agency on Monday, Ng'ombe said when men decide not to trim their hair or beard during this month; it will give them a glimpse of what patients going through prostate cancer experience, which should motivate them to help raise awareness on the disease.
"We need to hold hands to fight cancer. We need a holistic approach, and we need everyone in the fight whether through corporate, individual, groups, organization or government sector to ensure that we have holistic care which ensures more people survive from cancer," said Ng'ombe.
No Shave November is a month that calls for men to keep their hair and beards unshaved as one way of raising cancer awareness, according to Ng’ombe who added that No Shave period will end on November 30.
He said the period also provides room for men and women to spare money they would spend on barbershops or hair salons to have their hair done to donate to organizations that sensitize the public on cancer prevention
Ng’ombe added that the grouping of cancer survivors has also involved youths to take an active role in the No Shave November campaign to raise awareness on social media platforms to mobilize funds to fight prostate cancer among men.
One of the advocates, John Mwale said he has been participating in the campaign at least five years consistently, symbolizing solidarity in the fight against cancer.
“The fight against cancer fight is too huge to fight alone, we, therefore, need to come in to support patients and cancer survivors and join forces that assist in preventing cancer. Everyone has a role to play in dealing with cancer,” Mwale added.
No-Shave November was founded in 2009, to raise awareness in the cancer fight, mobilizing support for the cause.
