MANAonline
Police unit construction excite communities in Mzimba
By Joel Phiri
Mzimba, 23 August, mana: People at Kapopo in Traditional Authority M’mbelwa in Mzimba district have expressed excitement with construction of Kapopo Police Unit in the area, saying it will help alleviate challenges of insecurities communities were grappling with due to the absence of police.
Speaking in an interview, group village head Kakomba Nkhata said for a long time people in the area have been living in fear.
‘‘So when we heard that M’mbelwa District Council will construct a Police unit here at Kapopo we were all gripped with a sense of excitement.
“This would mark an end to the long travels we were undertaking to report suspects of various crimes to Jenda Police or Mquocha which lie very far from here, costing one way over K10, 000,’’ said Nkhata.
Village headman Mdolo Zunza said cases to do with rape, theft, and assaults rank higher in the area hence the construction of a police office has given communities hope that they will be secure and safe.
According to Kapopo Community Policing Forum secretary Redson Kamanga, Kapopo communities have been losing a lot due to the absence of a police unit in the area in terms of security.
‘‘The whole idea behind the formation of Kapopo Community Police Forum was born after looking at the volume of crimes the area was registering. Since we have had no Police officers we decided the best way was for us to join hands and start providing security on our own’’, said Kamanga.
Member of Parliament for the area Raymond Nkhata expressed excitement with the construction of the Police unit saying it will boost security in the area.
According to M’mbelwa District Council director of Public Works Allan Chitete, the construction of the Kapopo Police Unit aims to address security lapses in the area to ensure that communities are living in a safe and secure environment.
‘‘We want people to be living in a secure environment and conduct their businesses without fear of robberies’’, he said.
M’mbelwa Council has used K167 million to construct a Police unit, one staff house and two toilets using funds from the Governance to Enable Service Delivery (GESD).
Mchinji council awards best performing schools
By Lynnette Chataika
Mchinji, August 23, Mana: Mchinji District Council has awarded the best performing schools in the 2023/2024 Primary School Leaving Certificate of Education Examination (PSLCE).
The District Commissioner (DC) Lucia Chidalengwa, called on school inspectors, Primary Education Advisors (PEAs) and teachers to continue working as a team in promoting education in the district to produce and maintain the best results beyond the current performance.
“You have made us proud by putting Mchinji on the spotlight with such amazing results. Let us work together to grow these results across the district,” Chidalengwa said.
The call was made at Mikundi Primary School where Mikundu, Kawere, Lameke and Mkanda Primary Schools received monetary prizes for being in the top 10 of public primary schools with percentage of As and Bs.
The Director of Education, Youth and Sports, Joyce Hamsini said she was overjoyed with the results amid all the challenges that the schools are currently undergoing.
“It is our job to empower learners to maintain such results, let us work together to maintain such results," said Hamsini.
Representing all the Head teachers in the four schools, Stanley Nyembe of Mikundi Primary School, called on the corporate world and organizations of goodwill to assist financially students that have been selected to secondary schools, but may not afford the fees and other necessary materials.
“Having 63 students selected to National schools, 33 students to conventional schools and 24 to CDSS’, we will surely need your assistance in continuing to educate these students because some of them are considered needy students,” he said.
Deputy Minister calls for collaboration in service delivery
By Sylvester Kumwenda
Dowa, August 23, Mana: Deputy Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture Owen Chomanika has called for collaboration amongst local assemblies, their staff and development partners to enhance service delivery.
Chomanika said at Chikho Hotel in Dowa during a two-day Quarterly Coordinating Meeting organized by the ministry.
He said people expect a lot from government through the local assemblies, but this cannot be achieved if there is lack of collaboration amongst service providers.
"If the Community Development Fund is not working somewhere, it means somewhere there is a problem, whether at the Secretariat or with the Member of Parliament (MP). If health, education, agriculture, and deceased estate services are not working, it means there is a problem to be dealt with.
"So after doing an analysis, we discovered that one of the challenges is coordination. That is why we conduct these quarterly meetings and bring together District Commissioners, MPs, councilors, and council directors to reflect on our work, learn from each other and improve our service delivery," he said.
Chomanika also spoke against the tendency of absenteeism amongst council staff saying this contributes to delay in service provision.
"You find sometimes directors are not in office for three days, they have been taken somewhere by a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) which is not even doing anything tangible.
"That is why our NGO board is here to make sure that we at least discuss all these things and properly align issues," he added.
Chomanika then asked NGOs to align their activities with their respective councils' Social Economic Profiles (SEP) to ensure maximum project impact and avoid duplication of work.
On the issue of resources, Chomanika urged councils to use and allocate prudently and avoid underutilizing the resources.
In his remarks, Board Chairperson for Malawi Local Governance Finance Committee Commissioner Richard Chapweteka, said one of the challenges in local councils is the low rate of absorption of resources.
"We noted that usually councils wait until funds are in their accounts to start the procurement processes. But going forward, we have told them that they need to be starting procurement processes before the money is in because they already know their budgets.
"However we should commend councils because now, all have done well in audits. This means the abuses which were there are now being eradicated. This must continue," he said.
Hadrod Zeru Mkandawire, Executive Director for Malawi Local Government Association also urged councils to coordinate effectively with development partners at the local level.
He however acknowledged that sometimes development partners dictate on how and where resources are to be utilized, which sometimes render other areas with more interventions than others.
"For fear of losing resources or to be seen as putting spanners to development, councils submit to the demands of development partners through the NGOs, which in ideal situations is not supposed to be the case.
"Councils are supposed to stand their ground and guide according to their SEP, District Development Plans, mapping, that this is an area much concentrated with resources, and probably ask for an initiative to move to another area," he said.
However, he said they are working hand in hand with the Non-Governmental Organizations Regulatory Authority to see how best issues like these can be addressed.
CS-EPWP enhances participants’ well-being in Machinga
By Martin Chiwanda
Machinga, August 23, Mana: Machinga District Director of Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resource (DAENR) Thursday said Climate Smart Enhanced Public Works Programme (CS-EPWP) has enhanced both participants’ economic and social well-being while promoting sustainable practices that are crucial for long-term resilience.
Isaac Ali made the observation in an interview during the launch of the districts participants pay parade for third phase of the works in Likwenu micro-catchment in the area of traditional authority Nkula.
Ali said apart from the program generating employment opportunities, especially for vulnerable groups, including women and youth, and contributing to the local economic development, the participants’ household income has improved.
“By providing wages after working, it has improved household income, allowing for better access to food, healthcare, and education. For instance, this time around when most of the people have no food and cannot be able to find money to buy food for their families, participants of the programme will be able to buy food with what they have received. This will lessen their food and economic challenges,” explained Ali.
Fifty-two year old Chrissie Madona acknowledged that their participation in CS-EPWP has brought about several positive impacts, including receiving wages that supplement their household income and food security.
Madona said with the current hunger situation which has hit hard most of them, the money they have received will caution the situation.
“I am happy that I participate in this work and be able to get money in the end. For your information, the money which I have received will assist me to buy food though the money is not that enough,” she said.
Another participant Elita Abasi of 41-years-old with six children who comes from Kaphuka Group Village Head said the money she has received has come at a right time.
“Although the money is not enough, it has come at a right time as part of it will be used to buy writing materials for my children as school is about to open,” she narrated.
Abasi however urged the authorities to think of adjusting the amount they receive as wages to make sure that they afford to buy a bag of maize which is now expensive.
“I want also to beg that if possible government should also be providing us with a bag of maize during the working period apart from the wages. I am asking this since working needs energy,” she urged.
The CS-EPWP is being implemented by National Local Government Finance Committee with funding from the World Bank and aims to provide social protection through labor-intensive public works.
NRB for enhanced collaboration- Sambo
By Gift Chiponde
Lilongwe, August, MANA: Principal Secretary for the National Registration Bureau (NRB), Mphatso Sambo, has emphasized the need of strengthen collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the efficiency of the registration exercise across all districts in the country
His statements were made on Thursday, during a Press briefing held at the Bureau's headquarters in Lilongwe, with the aim of updating Malawians on the current status of NRB registration process in the country.
Sambo highlighted that Malawi has attained the highest global ranking among nations undertaking registration, boasting a registration rate of 75 percent.
He indicated that the Bureau is committed to promptly assisting those requiring registration, with intentions to establish service centers in all traditional authority headquarters for expedited citizen support.
Sambo underscored the Bureau's mandate to execute registration nationwide, acknowledging the steadfast backing of the Malawian government in facilitating the operations of the National Registration Bureau.
"In the spirit of transparency and accountability, the Bureau consistently engages diverse stakeholders to provide insights into its operations" Sambo Said
While giving an overview on ID registration, Acting Chief Registration Officer responsible for IDs, Mbawaka Mwakhwawa, provided an update on the Citizenship registration exercise, revealing that the Bureau has conducted mass registration from 2016 to 2023, with some individuals yet to be registered due to various challenges.
He stated that currently, the Bureau is undertaking a Mop Up Exercise to finalise the registration process, showcasing commendable performance throughout these exercises.
It was revealed that 12.3 million individuals aged 16 and above have been documented.
Furthermore, Mwakhwawa pointed out that the current projections from the National Statistics Office and NRB indicate a significantly high population in terms of registration in Lilongwe, with Likoma below the list.
Chief Registration Registration responsible for Civil Registration and Vital Statistics, Rhoderic Langwe, stated that 3.5 million children have been registered since the inception of the exercise.
"Despite these efforts, a substantial gap remains due to unregistered individuals" Langwe said
He reiterated the commitment of the National Registration Bureau to ensuring the registration of every Malawian.
Langwe emphasized that through the issuance of birth and death certificates, the government can enrich its database by recording causes of death, aiding in identifying prevalent diseases, and enhancing service delivery while supporting research initiatives.
Police engage community leaders on security matters
By Rennie Tembo
Lilongwe, August 22, Mana; Lingadzi Police station has called on community leaders in Area 18 to be in the forefront by making sure that security is not compromised in their localities.
Speaking Thursday during a stakeholders meeting in Lilongwe, Lingadzi Police Assistant Commissioner Edwin Magalasi stressed the need to promote a strong relationship between the police and community leaders to effectively enhance security and safety.
''A secured community is not just the responsibility of law enforcement alone, it requires a collaborative effort from everyone by working together. We can share knowledge, resources, and expertise to prevent and address crimes,'' he said.
Magalasi further commended the role women are playing in supporting security initiatives by among other things giving tips to the women and men in uniform.
He then proposed the construction of a waiting shelter at the police station office to accommodate people who visit the police for different reasons.
"I would like to thank women who are playing an active role in supporting our security efforts, their commitment is greatly acknowledged and we are optimistic that their continued involvement and contributions will significantly enhance our ability to build a safer and more secure community for all,” said Magalasi
Block leader for area 18, Gogo Steven Sandram, thanked Lingadzi Police Station Management for working with members of the general public in tightening security in the area.
Sandram then pledged to work closely with police officers by among other things encouraging members of community policing to promote security.
''As leaders we must encourage our people on how important this partnership is. I am happy to know how men and women in uniform are committed to creating a safe environment,” he said
Nsanje District Council ushers in new Council Chairperson
By Robert Nayeja
Nsanje, August 22, Mana: Councilor for Mlonda Ward, Cassim Ngwali has been voted as Chairperson for Nsanje District Council after defeating Councilor Robert Chavi of Matundu Ward.
Ngwali got eight votes against six votes during the elective council meeting held on Thursday.
In his acceptance speech, Ngwali said he wants to enhance oneness at the council for smooth acceleration of the development in the district.
"Let's forget put aside our political affiliation and prioritise development in the district," he said.
During the elections, Councilor Felix Round of Nyachilenda Ward was voted second Vice Chairperson for the council after defeating Councilor Bornface Chimpokosera of Dinde Ward with eight votes against six.
Vice President Praises CCAP's Enduring Legacy
By Daniel Siame
Lilongwe, August 23, Mana: The Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) launched its centenary book on Friday at Bingu International Conference Centre (BICC), marking 100 years of influence in the country.
The book, "The Church of Central Africa Presbyterian 1924-2024: A Centenary Assessment," highlights the church's contributions to Christianity and community development.
In his remarks, The Vice President of Malawi Dr. Michael Bizwick Usi, praised the CCAP for its leadership and tireless efforts in spreading the Word of God.
He commended the church's initiatives in education, healthcare, and social services, serving the nation selflessly.
The Vice President emphasized the importance of the church's ongoing mission. He encouraged the CCAP to view this centenary as a foundation for continued growth and service.
" I would like to commend CCAP leadership for its tireless efforts in spreading the word of God and serving the community" Usi said.
Rt. Rev. Biswick Nkhoma, Moderator of the CCAP General Assembly, reflected on the legacy of the church's founding fathers, their vision has guided the CCAP to where it is today.
Nkhoma called on the church to build on this legacy, ensuring the values and mission established a century ago continue to thrive. The church must move forward, embracing its role in fostering spiritual and social well-being.
Rt. Rev. Shaw Peterson, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, praised the book for offering a deep insight into the CCAP's history. He acknowledged the church's pivotal role in Malawi and beyond.
Peterson emphasized the significance of the CCAP's contributions to Christianity and community development. The book serves as a testament to the church's enduring impact.
The event celebrated the CCAP's past achievements while emphasizing its ongoing mission. Church leaders and members gathered to mark this significant milestone.
The launch of the centenary book serves as a call to action for the future. The CCAP remains committed to serving Malawi and beyond, fostering spiritual and social well-being for generations to come.
NWRA commissions six tipper trucks at Kamuzu Barrage facility
Martin Chiwanda and Charlie Ligomeka
Machinga, August 23, Mana: National Water Resources Authority (NWRA) on Thursday commissioned six tipper trucks at Liwonde barrage in Machinga for weed management, which will involve removing and transporting the weeds from Shire River to a damping site.
Speaking after commissioning of the trucks supplied by Mahindra, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Water and Sanitation, Elias Chimulambe said the trucks were highly significant to Malawi because they will be assisting in conservation of Malawi's main source of electrical power.
“We are glad for this development because our main source of electrical power, which is approximately 90%, is generated from Shire River which therefore needs to be watched carefully. Removing the weeds and other damps from the river, will not only affect how water passes through the barrage, but also how Egenco manages their machines downstream,” he added.
The Principal Secretary called on those that will be responsible for running of the trucks to avoid using them on other tasks different from weeds removal and others as per their job.
He said government expects good use and productivity of energy supply in Malawi through the introduction of the trucks, which will contribute to weed management
Chimulambe also encouraged proper use of the wastes that will be disposed from the river.
According to agreement made with the Machinga District Council, the weeds will be turned into composite manure and production of biogas energy.
Engineer. James Mambulu, who is Board Chairperson for NWRA said the six trucks was a big milestone in weed management, adding that the authority will make good use of trucks to archive the intended purpose.
“What matters now is how we use these facilities, as of now we have recruited the barrage manager who will start working on September 1 this year. We will also recruit other members that at the barrage to ensure proper management of the barrage and the trucks,” he added.
MWASIP Technical Team Leader for Planning and Monitoring, James Kumwenda said MWASIP’s objective is to improve watershed services and catchment restoration and expressed gratitude with the introduction on the new trucks for weed management at the barrage
He added that will also assist in restoring quality of water in Shire River, improving water flow and assist in production of electricity downstream.
Kumwenda thanked World Bank for providing funding through MWASIP, saying provision of the trucks was significant move in the right direction.
Electricity Generation Company of Malawi (Egenco) has been managing the project but another company, Mahindra is taking over up to 2026.
KICC Malawi to celebrate 12 anniversary
By Stanley Nkhondoyachepa
Lilongwe, August 23, Mana: The Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC) will on Sunday celebrate its 12 anniversary in Malawi.
The ceremony will take place at its KICC Lilongwe church, located in area 46 Bypass road in the city, where a number of activities will take place.
Speaking in an Interview with Malawi News Agency (Mana) on Friday, KICC Malawi resident pastor, Macduff Phiri said the celebration theme: This far the Lord has brought us, relates to how far God has taken the church, since opening its branch in Malawi in 2012.
He said the theme is taken from the book of 1 Samuel 7:12 where King David is looking back and seeing how God has been faithful to him.
Phiri said since 2012, KICC has experienced expansion from just one church in Lilongwe to new branches in Blantyre under Pastor Moffat Mtegha, and another in Mzuzu under Pastor Chimwemwe Chihana.
“So on Sunday, we will come together as KICC Malawi and celebrate God`s goodness and faithfulness throughout the years” he said.
Phiri said among other activities, there will be a sermon by Pastor Moffat Mtegha, adding Arthur Fatch, a guest worship minister from Blantyre will lead the KICC worship team.
“We have also extended invitations to all people of good will, those who were part of us when we were starting and those who would just love to be part of us, as a body of Christ” he said.
Phiri said the celebration which will start at 8 am will also feature presentations from the children church, among other kid’s activities,
“We have also prepared meals, drinks and other things for free as part of the celebration for those who will come” he said.
According to Phiri, KICC envisions growing up in Christ, number and together in faith, saying it has reached out to people with the good news in its surrounding areas.
KICC was founded in 1992 by a famous Nigerian Pastor, Matthew Ashimolowo.
