By Moses Nyirenda

Lilongwe, May 10, Mana: Wash Media Forum newly elected Chairperson, Meclina Chirwa has challenged journalists to cover more stories about Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) if the challenges affecting the country’s WASH sector are to be addressed.

She made the remarks on in her acceptance speech for the Chairpersonship role during Wash Media Forum Annual General Meeting (AGM) which held on Thursday at Cross Roads Hotel in Lilongwe with support from Water and Environmental Sanitation Network (WESNET).

Chirwa said that journalists in the country have critical role to play in exploring challenges concerning WASH in communities so that they should be addressed.

“The issue to do with WASH is a big challenge in the country and we are remaining behind in terms of monetary support or even commitment of stakeholders and government, so as journalist we have a big role to play to explore the WASH challenges that people are facing in the communities.

“We have to ensure that people in rural communities are well assisted, there are gaps between the urban and the rural areas in terms of water supply so it is our role to ensure that there is equal access to WASH services for both urban and rural areas,” Chirwa noted.

She promised to be committed to encouraging journalists especially those who are the members of Wash Media Forum to ignite their interest in covering WASH stories.

“We will ensure that all members in the forum should be committed, they should not just be members by just a name but they should be passionate about their work so that we can serve the country,” the Chairperson said.

WESNET Executive Director, Willies Mwandira, said that journalists in the country have been vital in lobbying government to make better policies aimed at enhancing the country’s WASH sector.

“In past journalists managed to advocate for key sector issues in water and sanitation and those issues managed to influence even government to change some of the policy directions.

“Even this newly instituted Ministry of Water and Sanitation, it is something to say the media did a lot of advocacy work to ensure that this ministry comes to place,” he acknowledged.

He said his organization was keen to supporting journalists with resources through Wash Media Forum in order for them to cover more stories that would help to transform the country’s WASH sector.

Wash Media Forum was established in 2009 with a mission to promote and advocate issues about WASH through the use of media.

By Patricia Kapulula in Nairobi

Nairobi, May 10, Mana: Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) has pumped in US$45 million to help in promoting agricultural productivity, soil health, use of fertilizer and conservation in order to help the country produce enough thereby achieving food and nutrition security.

Minister of Agriculture, Sam Kawale, told Malawi journalists in Nairobi Kenya after President Dr Lazarus Chakwera held an audience with AGRA officials.

He said the funds, which would be made available to Malawi for a period of five years, was important as it targets value chains that would bring more money to Malawi.

“Partners have pledged support in different ways. We met International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD) which we work with in irrigation. There is a US$5 million package that has already been secured to help us in soil management to increase productivity,” the Minister disclosed.

Kawale said the country was not food and nutrition secure because soil nutrition has been depleted hence the need to put in place mechanisms for soil management and the funding secured would help achieve that.

Chairperson for AGRA, Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe said Malawi was endowed with huge natural resources hence the need for the country to depart from rain fed agriculture to irrigation in order to respond to climate change shocks.

“Our work is to have a sustainable production system given the climate change calamities and vulnerabilities. We are launching a programme on sustainable farming which talks of how to improve soil, land and soil degradation as well as deforestation,” he said.

AGRA is investing in a youth programme that will create 250,000 jobs for youths in agriculture, agribusiness and food systems.

AGRA is a Pan African institution, which works on inclusive agriculture transformation in Africa and Malawi is one of the 16 African countries in its programme.

In Malawi, AGRA has trained agriculture professionals on agronomy and breeding.

By Daniel Siame

Lilongwe, May 9, Mana: The ministry of Trade and Industry held a Business Forum today at Bingu International Conference Center (BICC) in pursuit to enhance collaboration with India to boost economic and technological advancement. The key sectors discussed in dialogue are agriculture, renewable energy, and information technology. This strategic partnership is poised to bring a wave of benefits to Malawi, promising increased investment, technology transfer, and sustainable development.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Trade and Industry, The Minister of Natural resources and Climate change, Michael Usi says India and Malawi can create a path towards shared prosperity and inclusive development.

Malawi, a country with vast agricultural potential, stands to gain significantly from Indian expertise and investments in this sector. The exchange of agricultural technologies and practices could revolutionize Malawi’s farming landscape, boosting productivity and ensuring food security for its population. Furthermore, Partnership in renewable energy hold promise for addressing Malawi’s energy challenges and transitioning towards cleaner, more sustainable power sources.

High commissioner of Malawi to India, Leonard Mengezi, highlighted the need for partnership between Malawi and India to create opportunities and consensual relations.

“Let us work together with determination, creativity, and a shared vision for a brighter future for Malawi and India.” Lengezi said.

One of the notable outcomes of this collaboration is the potential influx of Indian Businesses are eyeing opportunities in various           sectors, attracted by the conductive investment climate and growth potential in Malawi. This investment surge is expected to create jobs, stimulate local industries, and contribute to overall economic diversification.

Moreover, the transfer of information technology know-how from India could catalyze Malawi’s digital transformation. Access to advanced IT solutions could empower Malawian businesses and institutions, driving efficiency and innovation across sectors such as healthcare, education and finance.

During recent discussions between Indian and Malawian officials, both parties emphasized the importance of friendship and good cooperation in realizing these shared goals. In response to Malawi’s calls for increased investment, Indian businesses have shown keen interest in exploring opportunities in the country. This signals a new chapter of economic collaboration, grounded in mutual respect and partnership.                       

By Tione Andsen

Lilongwe, May 9, Mana: Mafco are in a tricky fixture on Saturday weekend as they face fifth placed FCB Nyasa Big Bullets at Chitowe Stadium in Dwangwa.

Coming from an away defeat against Premier Bet, Dedza Dynamos, Mafco have a mountain to climb in order to claim their first maximum points for the season.

Mafco was the only team in 2022 that hammered Bullets in the league when they played at Dedza stadium as their home ground but now are at their backyard.   

Will Mafco repeat the magic they used at Dedza and become the first team this season to inflict defeat at the hands of the defending champions.

The Lakeshore giants are a fix as they are in the relegation zone with two pints from six games and are yet to post a win.

They need to utilize their home ground advantage when they play host to Bullets and they should revenge on cup defeats they suffered at the hands of the people’s team last soccer season.

Mafco seem to be going through a patch of poor results owing to the absence of their captain, Paul Ndhlovu and coach Prichard Mwansa who has not reported for duties at the club.

Will the caretaker coach, Technical Director for Mafco, Stereo Gondwe have the muscle to stop Bullets at home?

They have only managed to secure two draws against Kamuzu Barracks 1-1 at home and Baka City 0-0 away but lost away to Moyale Barracks 2-1, Silver Strikers 5-1, Premier Bet Dedza Dynamos 3-0.

Fresh from Blantyre derby draw, Bullets will be itching for maximum points in order to narrow the gap with league leaders, Silver Striker currently at 13 points while Bullets have nine points.

They have won away once against Chitipa United 3-0 and they capable of replicating the same results against Mafco.

Mighty Mukuru Wanderers will welcome Karonga United at Kamuzu Stadium and they have to gun for maximum points as catch up drive to the title.

Wanderers need to avoid wastefulness in front of goals as their main man, Christopher Kumwembe, when playing at home.

New revelation midfielder, Blessings Singini has duty to anchor Wanderers engine room like what he did in the derby encounter.

Battle for newcomers is on between FOMO and Baka City at Mulanje Park as the visitors will be seeking for their first win of the season and are anchoring the log.

Leaders, Silver Strikers have a date against Creck Sporting on Sunday and a win they will consolidate their lead.

Creck Sporting defence should keep a close eye on Silver’s joint goal scoring machines Adiel Kaduya and Binwell Katinji.

Playing at home, the Bankers have proved to be free scoring and Creck Sporting have a task to tighten their defence.

At Mzuzu Stadium, battle for second position will emerge as third place, Ekwendeni City Hammers will face Kamuzu Barracks.

Any for any team, they will push close to the leaders, Silver and a draw they will be overtaken by teams that are trailing them behind.  

TNM Super League weekend fixtures are as follows and kicking off at 2:30 pm.

Saturday- May 11, 2024

Moyale Barracks vs Chitipa United @ Mzuzu Stadium

Mafco vs FCB Nyasa Big Bullets @ Chitowe Stadium

FOMO vs Baka City @ Mulanje Park

Mighty Mukuru Wanderers vs Karonga United @ Kamuzu Stadium

Civil Service United vs Bangwe All Stars @ Civo Stadium

Sunday- May 12, 2024

Silver Strikers vs Creck Sporting @ Silver Stadium

Mighty Waka Tigers vs Premier Bet Dedza Dynamos

Ekwendeni City Hammers vs Kamuzu Barracks a@ Mzuzu Stadium  

By Vida Msiyo

Blantyre, May 9, Mana: Chimwankhunda Living Waters Church Youth Pastor, Reverend Amos Benjamin has encouraged the youth to participate in church activities, noting that their participation allows them to showcase individual spiritual gifts considering that the youth were future leaders.

Chimwankhunda Living Waters Church hosted a talent exhibition event aimed at showcasing a diverse of skills which youth gospel lovers have, and allowing them to share the gospel to each other.

Speaking with Malawi News Agency (Mana) on Wednesday, Benjamin said allowing the youth to display their talents can have a profound impact, noting that such events help to strengthen the bond among different groups as they foster a sense of togetherness and promote unity.

“In this time of entertainment, it is crucial to create space where young people can engage and feel entertained, while also hearing the word of God, fostering creativity and talent can make church attendance more appealing to the youth and encourage their continued involvement in church activities,” said Benjamin.

Benjamin added that people are often recognized not by their job titles but by their unique gifts and this signifies the importance of churches supporting young people in developing and displaying their talents.

He said it was vital for the church to provide opportunity for the youths to demonstrate their skills, because not only does it inspire them but also helps bring the community together.

Gospel lovers were treated to music performed by Twin-Light duo, a hip-hop group which consists of twin brothers Faith Crecile Nyirenda and Patience Jerry Nyirenda who performed beyond limits, among other dancing, poetry and drama performances.

Speaking in a separate interview, Patience shared his pleasure with the experience, saying their performance with his brother was successful due to thorough preparations before the event.

“We always think about the audience first which helps us decide what to deliver. We pray and practice to make sure we are ready for the event and we gave each other specific tasks for the stage ensuring a smooth and engaging performance,” he said.

In her remarks one of the attendees, Ruth Nyirenda said the success of the talent exhibition at the church demonstrates the importance of creating space for young people to express themselves and connect with their community.

Nyirenda expressed gratitude over the event, saying it brought positive influence to the youth.

“Events like these help us to overcome stress at the same time provides the much needed entertainment and also offer a valuable alternative to less constructive activities,” said Nyirenda.

By Joel Phiri

Mzimba, May 9, Mana: Communities in Traditional Authority (T/A) Mabilabo in Mzimba have commended Ministry of Water and Sanitation for constructing two solar-powered water schemes in their areas.

The establishment of the schemes has brought smiles on the people’s faces, as it marks the end of water woes which they have been grappling with for years.

Salome Gausi of Jamu Village in the area expressed gratitude that the community can now access potable water, courtesy of the K2 billion Msaka and Champhira Water Supply Schemes Project.

‘‘We used to wake up early in the morning to go out, fetching for water from unprotected sources where even livestock and wild animals drink from. We are now saved from both the distance of over a kilometre to where we were fetching water as well as water-borne diseases,’’ said Gausi.

Another community member, Lilian Moyo, of Group Village Head Germany Nthala, said some families were shaken because of the lack of potable water within the vicinity.

‘‘Some husbands used to accuse their wives of flirting with other men at the water source because of delaying in returning home as the sources are at far away distant places.

“So, with water taps at our doorsteps, all the problems are history. The two water schemes have brought back bliss in marriages,’’ said Moyo.

Speaking recently when he toured the schemes which are at a 90 percent completion, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Water and Sanitation, Elias Chimulambe, said the project is being implemented under the Malawi Resilient and Disaster Risk Management Project funded by the World Bank.

“People in these areas for so many years have been getting water from swampy sources, hence the project,” said Chimulambe.

He added that though some works are yet to be completed, people have already started drawing water from some taps which have been installed in the villages.

“Commissioning of the project awaits its full completion by 30 May 2024 and the project will also benefit people in some villages under T/A Simulemba in Kasungu,” said Chimulambe.

According to the principal secretary, when fully operational, the schemes are expected to serve a population of over 89,000. Champhira Scheme will cater for 80,000 people while Msaka Scheme has a capacity to serve about 9,000 people.

“Government is committed to constructing more water schemes in rural areas of the county, as one way of providing people with potable water thereby promoting desired water and hygiene standards,” he said.

Chimulambe said construction of such infrastructure will address water challenges for people living in rural areas thereby meeting government’s aspirations in making sure everyone has access to safe water by 2030, as stipulated in the country’s Sustainable Development Goals.

‘‘We will therefore continue constructing these types of schemes in all other areas of the country to deal away with handheld boreholes which we are phasing out,’’ he said.

He added that the ministry is discouraging construction of hand held boreholes and that it is promoting piped water supply schemes.

He also said the ministry will train members of Mzimba South Water Users Association (WUA) in management of the two schemes for efficient utilisation and care.

According to chairperson of Mzimba South Water Users Association, Speck Chiumia, the scheme will contribute towards preventing water borne diseases.

By Salome Gangire

Neno, May 09, Mana: Neno District Council through Investing in Early Years project has distributed 300 goats to 15 Community Based Child care Centres (CBCCs) and 30 households worthy K18 million in an attempt to promote sustainable nutrition interventions and livelihood support in rural communities.

Speaking on Wednesday at Tikondane CBCC, Principal Nutrition, HIV and Aids Officer for Neno, Lucius Viligilio Njobvu said the programme is aimed at empowering local farmers, enhance food security and support the nutritional needs of children within the society.

“By introducing goats into the communities, the programme promotes sustainable livelihood practices, ensuring long-term food security and economic stability,” he said.

Njobvu observed that the exercise is meant to improve nutrition status of households as it is anticipated that they will be slaughtering the goats for meat to improve their diet as it is a source of protein which is essential for growth.

He said besides improving nutritional status, the goats will also improve household income since beneficiaries will be selling the livestock which will in turn improve livelihood of individual households.

“The goats are on a pass-on programme and once they produce, will be passed on to the next household, this intervention is part of the project sustainability once it phases out” he said.

Group Village Head Chidakwani in the area of Traditional Authority (TA) Chekucheku commended the initiative, saying the programme does not only support local farmers but also ensures that children have access to nutritious diet, which is crucial for their growth and development.

GVH Chidakwani advised the community to ensure the goats were properly taken care of as one way of sustaining the programme. She also urged her subjects to take full ownership and responsibility of the livestock.

Each household received five goats while the CBCCs received 10 goats each.