MANAonline
Men Engage Alliance urges men and boys to unite against GBV
By Charlie Ligomeka
Machinga, December 14, Mana: Men Engage Alliance and traditional leaders in Machinga have condemned traditional practices that subject adolescent girls and young women to forced marriages at the expense of their education and well-being.
The organization therefore called on boys and men in traditional authorities Sale, Kapoloma and Sitola to desist from engaging in love relations with underage girls.
Men Engage Alliance National Chairperson, Wells Munthali, made the call as the organization and other district stakeholders engaged various communities in the district on a series of anti-gender based violence (AGB) campaign this week.
The campaign was meant to appeal for communities in Machinga to end GBV in all its forms.
“It is heartbreaking to see someone working hard to raise a child, paying for her education, only to have an adult exploiting her, leading to pregnancy,” Munthali added, saying the 16 Day Activism Against GBV provide a space for communities to reflect implications of GBV to girls’ and women’s well-being.
He said there was need for parents, school authorities and youth groups to join hands in ending GBV, adding that all perpetuators of GBV should be reported to police and other law enforcing agents for prosecution.
Munthali's plea was echoed by Group Village Head Lewis in TA Sitola, who noted that poverty and other traditional norms were contributing factors to child marriages,
She added that Chimwamadzira was another bad practice, which compels the underage in sex with their fathers to gain favours.
“Chimwamadzira is deeply rooted in our culture. It is time for us to rethink our traditions and prioritize the well-being of our girls,
"We need to educate our communities about the dangers of GBV and work together to create a safer environment for all,” Group Village head Lewis added.
She further observed polygamy as another contributing factor to GBV, observing that men marry younger second wives, abandoning their first wives and leaving children with no support.
Esther Timothy from Lewis village shared her personal experience of being abandoned by a husband, who married a younger woman and stopped providing for her and children.
“We harvested tobacco together and after selling it, he left me and married another wife. He stopped assisting me as a wife.
“I was left with nothing, and I had to struggle to make ends meet. It's not fair that men just abandon wives and children in this manner,” she added.
Power to Youth Programme is being implemented by a consortium of six alliance members namely, MHRRC, Centre for Youth Empowerment and Civic Education, Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation, Youth Wave, Armref Health Africa and Malawi SRHR Alliance with funding from Sonke Gender Justice to engage communities, raise awareness, and find practical solutions to GBV.
The programme works with community structures, such as mother groups and chief's forums to address GBV.
“We believe that by working together, we can create a society where women and girls are valued and respected,” said Malawi Human Rights Center, Programmes Officer, Lyna Soko.
She said there was need to empower communities to take a bold step in tackling GBV at every step of it.
“We need to empower our communities to take action against GBV and support those who have been affected. As an organization, we are committed to providing a platform for survivors to share their stories and access justice,” Soko added and stated the importance of engaging men and boys in the fight against GBV.
She said men and boys should be champions of anti GBV such that there was need sensitize a lot of boys and men so that they should be able to know and understand all aspects of GBV.
“We need to work with men and boys to change their attitudes and behaviors towards women and girls. By doing so, we can create a society where everyone can live without fear of violence or discrimination,” she added.
District Youth Officer for Machinga, Hope Mwafulirwa said the district is working with many partners to deal with GBV and expressed optimism that the district registered significant progress in the fight against GBV.
“We have seen an increase in the number of men and boys that are taking action against GBV, and we have also seen a decrease in the number of GBV cases reported in the district,” he said.
The Youth Officer however called for additional efforts with more partners in the fight against GBV through intensified mass awareness on many forms of GBV and where to report to avoid registering alarming cases.
“The fight against GBV requires a collective effort. It is clear that we are making progress. However, there is still much work to be done, and it's essential that communities continue to work together to create a safer, more equitable society for all.
“In 2024, Machinga registered approximately 6,500 teenage pregnancies, with 44 maternal deaths, mostly of young girls and 324 abortions,” he added.
As the efforts to deal with GBV remain, the District Youth Office urged communities to report GBV cases to relevant authorities to ensure a GBV free environment for all.
Malawi joined the international community in activism against GBV under the theme; Unite to End Violence against Women and Girls, Towards Beijing +30.
President Chakwera rues lack of discipline among Malawians
By Joel Phiri
Mzimba, December 14, Mana: President Dr. Lazarous Chakwera has called for discipline to prevail among citizens for the country to register remarkable strides in various spheres of development.
Chakwera made the remarks on Saturday at Luwerezi Community Day Secondary School grounds during the commissioning of Champhira - Msaka Rural Water Supply Project.
The two water schemes have been constructed by the World Bank under the Malawi Resilience and Disaster Risk Management at a cost of MK3 billion.
Chakwera expressed concern over the growing indiscipline among some Malawians, which is evident in the destruction of government property.
"Some people have been destroying property of government. This is retrogressive to the development of the nation. We can't develop with such tendencies," said Chakwera.
He has since called Malawi Police service to deal with all rogues destroying state property.
Minister of Water and Sanitation, Abida Mia, said her ministry is committed to ending the problem of shortage of portable water among rural communities.
"This is the reason government has constructed the two water schemes. The objective is to deal with challenges of lack of portable water prevalent in rural areas,” she said.
Mia also asked communities to guard against the destruction of water infrastructure and illegal water connections.
World Bank Country Manager, Firaas Raad, said the Bank is committed to addressing water challenges to ensure reduced incidents of water borne diseases and also to propel economic development through irrigation projects among communities.
The Champhira - Msaka solar powered water schemes is set to benefit over 122,000 people in Traditional Authority Mabilabo and part of Kasungu in Traditional Authority Chisimulambe.
Presidential Advisor Promotes Unity Among Entertainers
By Hastings Yobe and Chrispin kapindira
Mzuzu, December 14, Mana: Qabaniso Malewezi, the Presidential Advisor on creative industries, has urged entertainers to collaborate and work together to achieve their goals.
Malewezi made these remarks at the Mpoto Awards held at Grand Palace in Mzuzu City on Friday, December 13.
Malewezi, who was the Guest of Honor at the event, highlighted the significance of the awards in symbolizing progress, celebrating achievements, and inspiring growth. He praised the organizers, performers, and the public for their support, expressing delight at the showcase of the northern region’s culture.
Malewezi also emphasized the importance of the newly passed National Arts and Heritage Council Act, which acknowledges the arts’ contribution to Malawi’s economy and cultural identity.
“The council will have district committees, which will simplify processes because all practitioners will be required to register with the council,
Efforts are being made to ensure everyone understands the importance of the National Arts and Heritage Act for the arts,” he explained.
Gregory Maulana, the Marketing Manager for Grand Palace Hotel, described the event as successful, though noting areas for improvement.
“The organizers of the Mpoto Awards need to secure more sponsors for future events,” he said.
“We are ready to continue supporting them in their upcoming events until they reach their desired level.” Maulana added.
Malawi Netball Team miss out on third place after Zimbabwe defeat
By Alinafe kapatamoyo
Lilongwe, December 14, Mana: Malawi Netball team, the Queens, suffered a tough defeat at the hands of Zimbabwe, by losing 48 baskets to 42. Unfortunately, this loss meant the Queens missed out on securing third place in the tournament.
The Queens showed promise earlier in the tournament, securing a 52-39 victory over Zambia in their opener. However, they struggled to maintain their momentum in their match against Zimbabwe.
Despite this setback, the Queens have shown they have the skill and determination to compete at a high level.
As the Queens reflect on their tournament performance, they will likely evaluate areas for improvement. With their skills and commitment, they remain positioned to achieve future success and represent Malawi effectively.
Beneficiaries of relief maize advised against selling the commodity
By Joel Phiri
Mzimba, December 14, mana: M’mbelwa District Council Relief and Rehabilitation Officer, Faith Longwe has advised beneficiaries against selling relief maize which is being distributed in the district through the Lean Season Food Response.
Longwe made the remarks on Thursday at Luwerezi in the area of Traditional Authority (TA) Mabilabo in Mzimba during a maize distribution exercise to 600 vulnerable and food-insecure households.
A total of about 22,900 households are expected to benefit from the Lean Season Food Response which is being supported by European Union(EU) from December 2024 to February 2025 in the district.
She said that the intervention is being implemented through Ministry of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare.
“It would be a lack appreciation to the donors to hear that beneficiaries of the initiative are selling out the relief food,” Longwe said.
One of the beneficiaries, Emeliya Chima said that she was struggling to feed her family of three children and the maize is a huge relief to her family.
‘‘This year I did not harvest enough maize to meet the food requirement for my family and this has made me run out of food quicker than the previous years.
Another beneficiary, Stelia Nyirenda, a mother of four, stated that 2024 has been the worst year for her family due to low harvests caused by a lack of fertilizer. She expressed gratitude to the government for coming to her aid.
The food response follows the 2024 Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee report which indicates that 153,000 people are food-insecure in Mzimba district.
Three die and one injured in Nkhata Bay road accident
By Chisomo Kambandanga
Nkhata Bay, December 14, Mana: Three people died on Thursday night and one sustained serious injuries in a head-on crash motor vehicle accident at Four Ways near St. Maria Gorretti Primary School in Nkhata Bay.
In an interview with Malawi News Agency, Public relations Officer for Nkhata Bay Police, Kondwani James said that the accident involved a motorcycle taxi operator who carried two passengers and a Honda Fit motor vehicle registration registration number CP 10232.
"I can confirm that the motorcycle taxi operator died on the spot and the two pillion passengers a male and female were pronounced dead upon arrival at Nkhata Bay District Hospital while the driver is receiving treatment at the facility,” said James.
According to James, angry mob burnt the vehicle and police have bemoaned the tendency to cause more damage following such accidents instead of rescuing victims.
Entrepreneurship in universities
By Alex Mlanga
Blantyre, December 12, Mana: An economic expert from Mzuzu University (Mzuni), Christopher Mbukwa, stated that integrating entrepreneurship courses into university curricula is producing positive outcomes, as students in various Malawian universities are engaging in diverse business ventures while continuing their studies.
“Two key points are notable, firstly, most universities introduced entrepreneurship courses at the turn of the century, and after one or two revisions, we began to see tangible results. Secondly, difficulties in securing traditional employment are driving graduates from various backgrounds to innovate through start-ups, which is commendable,” Mbukwa, explained in an interview with Malawi News Agency (Mana) this week.
He highlighted that several businesses started by groups of students have excelled in creating jobs and producing valuable products.
The expert suggested that universities can play a crucial role in promoting entrepreneurship, citing Mzuni and Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) where their entrepreneurship hubs provide students with resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
“Universities can also encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity and create an environment where failure is not stigmatised,” he said, adding that there was need for universities to partner with industries and small business owners to create hands-on learning experiences for students.
Malawi University of Business and applied Science (MUBAS) fourth year student, Arshley Lovemore Nazombe, has been engaged in entrepreneurship for three years selling electronics.
Apart from this, Nazombe also acts as an agent in helping first year student to secure accommodation, saying this helps him to make ends thereby reducing dependence on his parents.
Mzuni student, Alexander Chimkonda, also ventured into entrepreneurship after registering his business, Xander Creditors to provide loans to fellow students.
“I started this business after realising that not every student can access loans from finance lending institutions as most lending institutions often require employment as a condition to access loans.
“This leaves students with limited options. I saw an opportunity to fill this gap,” he added.
Both Nazombe and Chimkonda emphasised the importance of time management to balance academic and entrepreneurial pursuits.
“I balance my academic and business. I understand that I came here to learn, so school is my priority, during weekdays I attend classes while weekends I do my deliveries to customers, or when I finish my classes I do some adverts on social media platforms such as WhatsApp groups, Facebook where I find potential customers,” said Nazombe.
When contacted, MUBAS, Deputy Registrar, Elias Chizimba did not comment much saying he was following up the matter.
“I asked one officer to provide data on entrepreneurship activities among students,” he added.
FUM engages communities in Blantyre rural on cholera prevention
By Mtendere Ligowe
Blantyre, December 14, Mana: Farmers Union of Malawi (FUM) in collaboration with Ministry of Health engaged communities through theatre performance at Traditional Authority Kuntaja in Blantyre on cholera and malaria prevention during the rainy season.
During the first tour of the campaign at Mombo Market, TA Kuntaja, FUM Field Nutrition Officer Blessings Zalinga emphasized that prevention is key and urged community members to follow proper cholera prevention measures.
“During this rainy season, cholera and malaria cases increase because of unhygienic behavior. To prevent water borne disease, we should make sure that our homes and surroundings are always clean.
“Wash hands with soap after visiting toilet, and slash bushes around homes,” the Field Neutrino Officer said, adding that FUM believe that health population contributes to meaningful agricultural activities.
A member of the community that attended the campaign, Moses Mlipa commended FUM and the Ministry of Health for using theatre as a way of educating the communities on cholera and malaria preventing.
“The way drama has impacted knowledge in us while blending and entertaining us is seamless and remarkable, I hope we will use all the necessary measures we have learnt to make sure that we are safe,” added Mlipa.
FUM and Ministry of Health will use theatre performance as a tool to educate the masses during series of community engagements on cholera and malaria prevention.
NLGFC awards six districts for outstanding performance in social protection programmes
By Evance Chisiano
Blantyre, December 13, Mana: National Local Government Committee (NLGFC) has awarded six local authorities with certificates of recognition for outstanding performance under Climate Smart Enhanced Public Works Programme (CS-EPWP) and Social Cash Transfer Programme (SCTP).
The certificates presentation took place on Friday at Crossroads Hotel in Blantyre where the six councils namely: Karonga, Mbelwa, Nkhata Bay, Lilongwe, Chiradzulu and Nsanje met to also review Social Support Resilience Livelihood Project (SSRLP) in their respective districts.
NLGFC Executive Director, Dr. Kondwani Santhe said the six districts deserved the recognition following their outstanding performances in various areas of interventions under the two social protection programmes that are meant to improve people’s livelihoods.
The six districts were recognized after success completion of re targeting in the SCTP, outstanding performance in grievance redress mechanism (GRM) reporting under SCTP, outstanding performance in processing wages in the SC-EPWP, outstanding performance in CS-EPWP phases, best performance in Know Your Customer processes under SCTP and outstanding performance in processing electronic payment (e-payment) under the CS-EPWP.
In the category of SCTP, Karonga District Council was awarded a certificate of recognition for an outstand performance in Know Your Customer (KYC) processes under the SCTP while Nsanje District Council emerged an outstanding performer after achieving 99 per cent completion on re targeting under the SCTP.
Chiradzulu also got recognition for being an outstanding performer in GRM reporting under the SCTP with effective community and district level structures in place.
Under CS-EPWP, Mbelwa District Council was awarded a certificate of recognition for outstanding performance in processing manual wages within stipulated time as Lilongwe District Council also got a certificate of recognition for being a star performer in processing electronic payment, proving efficiency within shortest time in paying CS-EPWP participants.
According to NLGFC, Lilongwe is one of the ten districts that have migrated from manual payment to e-payment in CS-EPWP while the rest of the districts are yet to migrate to the electronic mode of payment.
Nkhata Bay District Council came on top as best performer in implementing CS-EPWP phases with remarkable efficiency within agreed time of completion of phase 3.
Dr. Santhe stated that there was sufficient evidence to show that the best-performing district demonstrated strong coordination and a commitment to service delivery, prioritizing the effective implementation of the two social protection programs.
World Bank Mission Task Team Leader for SSRLP, Chipo Nsowoya said the World Bank and other Social Protection Multi Donor Trust Fund partners were impressed with implementation of the social support programmes in Malawi though there was need to improve in some areas.
“There is need to improve on delayed wage payment. We are ready to discuss with Government of Malawi to see how best we can address this problem,” he added.
Representing Nsanje District Council, Chief Education Officer, Mashades Dakamao said dedication to service delivery plus abiding by the guidelines of NLGFC were some of the contributing factors that brought the outstanding performance in the implementation of SCRP.
“The certificate of recognition we have received will motivate us to maintain the standards. We will maintain this,” he added.
CS-EPWP is a component of the Social Support for Resilient Livelihood Project supported by the Bank and the Social Protection Multi donor Trust Fund.
Marep phase nine electrifying 464 trading centers - Matola
By Pickson Chipeso
Lilongwe, December 13, Mana: Minister of energy Ibrahim Matola has told Parliament that phase nine of the Malawi Rural Electrification Project (Marep) 464 trading centers countrywide.
Answering questions from Members of Parliament (MPs), Friday, in Lilongwe, Matola said that though Marep phase nine had experienced some challenges, he assured the MPs that his ministry managed to bring all necessary equipment to deal with those problems.
"The Marep phase nine had some challenges. Among others the challenge was about forex, but we managed to bring all the necessary equipment in order to energise those trading centers.”
"Those sites that received compensation contractors, are on the ground. We will be there, and we are going to electrify all those 464 trading centres," he said.
Meanwhile Thyolo Central legislator, Ben Phiri asked the Minister to assure the house that indeed they are going to have this effected.
Matola assured the house that under the leadership of President Dr Lazarus Chakwera all centres will be electrified as planned and promised hence members should not get worries.
