MANAonline
Chakwera assures Malawians of an independent investigation on VP plane crash
By Sella Singini and Tabbu Kitta Kauye
Lilongwe, June 16, mana: President Lazarus Chakwera has assured Malawians that a thorough and transparent independent investigation will be conducted in order to establish the cause of the plane crash that claimed the life of Vice President (VP), Dr. Saulos Chilima and eight others at Chikangawa forest in Mzimba district on Monday.
Chakwera made the assurance on Sunday during a funeral ceremony for the late VP that took place at Bing stadium in Lilongwe.
In his eulogy, the Malawi leader said he has already asked other countries to assist with the investigation.
“I understand that Malawi Defence Force (MDF) has its own protocols of conducting investigations, however that alone is not enough. Therefore, as of now it is necessary to involve independent investigators so that all Malawians including me should have solid answers on what really happened.
“I humbly implore all Malawians to remain calm and patient, as we will be waiting for the findings of the investigation. I also want to assure you that every Malawian will know the findings of the investigation once completed” he said.
The president noted that the four years he worked with Chilima, he has learnt the virtues of patience, forgiveness, peace and hard work.
In his eulogy, Chilima’s first-born son, Sean, described his late father as role model, leader and a great family man.
“My dad used to start his day with morning prayers at an altar in the house, then he would join the 6 o’clock mass at church, he would then exercise before starting his official work. This attest to how devoted my father was to his faith” he said.
The late VP`s son said the numerous tributes and stories that Malawians are sharing about his father, is a testimony of a great man, his late father was.
In his address president of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi, Archbishop George Tambala, said Chilima’s teachings will continue to inspire the young people to strive for the best.
Tambala said Chilima has taught the country to believe in the impossible.
He described Chilima, as a humble man, who served God with passion, and could do any church tasks, including mopping in the church regardless of his status in the society.
Late Chilima is expected to be laid to rest on Monday, 17th June 2024, in his home village in Nsipe, Ntcheu.
He was born on 12th February 1973 and is survived by a wife and two children.
SMEs and digital transactions key for FDH bank growth
By Tikondane Vega
Nassau, June 15, Mana: At the just ended three days 31st African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) meeting in Nassau, Bahamas, FDH Bank told the gathering that digital transactions and Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have been key to the bank's growth.
Deputy Managing Director, George Chitera Friday panel discussion titled “Unlocking the Opportunities to African Trade and Finance through Africa Trade Gateway (ATG) platform”.
The ATG is one portal that gives access to digital platforms such as customer due diligence platform, the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), a scheme that enables payment for intra-African trade in national currencies; the Tradar Club, a network for international businesses aimed at fostering growth in Africa; e-commerce platform the Africa trade exchange and ATG Connect, which provides freight and logistics connectivity solutions.
During the discussion, Chitera said SME banking continues to be a focal point for FDH Bank as a growth engine, evidenced by annual growth for the past years, Malawi Stock Exchange-listed Bank has been operating.
He said, “As pioneers of ATG in Malawi, the service came as an opportunity for the bank that champions growth and took it as a great avenue for growth since it enables the Bank better deliver on its mandate by providing critical services to support and promote African trade and the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).
“The Bank aspires to stay committed by supporting SMEs and reaffirms its commitment to providing cutting-edge digital solutions in response to the growing importance of e-commerce in Malawi and beyond.
In his contribution to the discussion, Executive Vice President for Global Trade Bank under Afrexim, Haytham ElMaayergi said the coming of ATG as digital evolution was part of its deliberate strategic response to address Africa’s key challenges to accelerate the pace of development and foster economic prosperity for Africans using and applying digital technologies and business models.
“Each one of our digital interventions is designed to address identified challenges and barriers for those seeking to engage in African trade and investment. I am pleased that each intervention has been successfully transformed from concept to reality and commend the hard work of our colleagues and partners in achieving these milestones.
“The Gateway is intended to “quicken regional integration, extend and create new access markets and accelerate the digital economy in Africa. Customers will be able to complete all their transactions within the one window,” he said while urging all people in different countries to make use of the opportunity to complete their dreams.
Nation is paying last respect to late Chilima
By Sheminah Nkhoma and Patience Longwe
Lilongwe, June 15, Mana: President, Dr. Lazarus Chakwera Saturday led the nation in paying their last respect to late Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima in a solemn and emotional ceremony at Parliament Building in Lilongwe.
The occasion saw attendance from former Presidents, diplomats, international dignitaries, and representatives from various political parties and religious organizations.
The death of Dr. Chilima marks the end of a notable chapter in the country’s history and his vision and efforts will undoubtedly continue to shape the nation's future for years to come.
The impact of Dr. Chilima's sudden passing has been profoundly felt across the nation.
Tributes have poured in from all sectors of society, reflecting the significant influence he had on the country's socio-political landscape.
His leadership and dedication to fostering a more equitable society have inspired countless individuals.
Government declared 21 days of national mourning, with flags being flown at half-mast in honour of late Dr. Chilima.
As the Nation grapples with this significant loss, a call for his continued mission of promoting transparency and accountability, fostering development in the country.
The Body of late, Dr Chilima will be taken to Bingu National Stadium (BNS) on Sunday, June 16 2024, where prayers will be conducted.
The late Vice President Chilima will be laid to rest on Monday, June 17, 2024 at Nsipe Village, Ntcheu District.
Government set to establish 395 civic education hubs
By Memory Chatonda
Blantyre, June 14, Mana: Government plans to establish 395 civic education hubs across the country to advocate for a positive mindset change among citizenry on various issues of development.
Deputy Director of Civic Education in the Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Lawrence Useni disclosed this Friday in Blantyre during capacity building and knowledge sharing of civic education hubs for southern region.
Useni said Malawi 2063 mandates the Ministry to establish the hubs comprising civil society organizations and government extension workers to sensitize the public at the village, traditional authority and district levels on various issues of development.
“So far, we have established 14 hubs and these structures are working hand in hand with district councils to identify areas that are problematic for sensitization. In some councils, their concern is school dropouts among girls, while in others, their area of focus is child protection in general,” he said.
National Planning Commission Development Planning Officer responsible for Mindset Change enabler, Salim Ahmed Mapila described the civic education hubs as crucial in the overall implementation of Malawi 2063.
“If you look at the vision document itself, it’s anchored on three pillars and seven enablers and a cross-cutting and key among the seven is mindset change. Within that, we are looking at how we could change people’s way of thinking as a development tool so that we have a citizenry that is geared towards development,” he noted.
Mapila asked for increased popularization of the document, saying the development would lead to the recruitment of more mindset change agents to help in the implementation of Malawi 2063.
“Currently, nearly 90 percent of Malawian adults are aware of the vision document and some pieces of what is contained in the document, but what the commission is geared at now is to let the people understand it better and help in its implementation. So, the civic education hub is one of the avenues we are exploring,” he said.
One of the participants from Chiwalo Civic Education Hub in Phalombe, Fanny Khalambe hailed the government for establishing their hub, which has gone far and beyond in sensitizing communities on the vision document and also seeking their effective participation to achieve the Malawi 2063 development objectives.
“Besides, we advocate for girl-child education, improved farming technologies and lobby for market linkages from various local and international organizations,” she said.
Body of Late Chilima arrives at State Residence
By Priscilla Phiri and Lesnart Kenani
Lilongwe, June 14, Mana: The body of late Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima has arrived at State Residence in Area 12, Lilongwe where the wake of his funeral will take place.
There was a sombre mood as multitudes of Malawians from all walks of life that have gathered at the residence to mourn Chilima.
Government officials, political party officials, the Ngoni community, religious leaders are among those present at the residence.
The Body has arrived at the residence from a Requiem mass which was held at St Patricks Parish Church, together with family members.
The casket was carried by Malawi Defence Force (MDF) pall bearers.
A Military gun salute was sounded in honour of the late Vice President, 30 minutes after the arrival of his remains.
Chilima’s body will be moved to Parliament Buildings on Saturday, June 15, 2024 where it will lie in state for Malawians to pay their final respects.
Vice President Chilima died on a plane crash together with eight others on June 10,2024 and he will be laid to rest on Monday, June 17, 2024 at Nsipe Village, Ntcheu District.
Late Chilima to be remembered as a Saint
By Eunice Disi and Rosalia Kapiri
Lilongwe, June 14, Mana: President, Dr. Lazarus Chakwera and First Lady Madam Monica Chakwera with thousands of Malawians on Friday afternoon attended funeral mass service to pray for the late Vice President, Dr. Saluos Chilima at St. Patrick's Parish in Lilongwe.
Describing the late Chilima as a dedicated and humble member of the church, the assistant officiating Rev. Father Zulu said Chilima would be remembered as a Saint in their prayers at St. Patrick's Parish.
"It all feels like a dream; we are all crying. Chilima was a church elder here and he loved the church so much. He was an easy going person, easy to interact with. I thank Madam Mary Chilima and the President for allowing this mass to take place," he said.
Speaking during the Mass, Dr. Matthews Mtumbuka who is the Parish Chairperson described Chilima as a dedicated member of the church who was ever present at every church's event.
"I know that death is painful but Chilima's passing has hurt so much because he has left a huge gap that no one will be able to fill.
"Chilima was a devoted Catholic whose Christianity was portrayed in everything that he did and it's my prayer that God in heaven should reward him for his good deeds," he said.
Auxiliary Bishop of Lilongwe Archdiocese, Bishop Vincent Mwakhwawa officiated the Mass at St. Patrick's Parish where late Chilima used to attend church services since 2007. In his words the Bishop said Chilima's legacy will carry on.
Major Aidini laid to rest in Mangochi
By Bishop Witmos
Mangochi, June 14, Mana: There were gun shots by the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) soldiers at Chiwalo Village in Traditional Authority (TA) Nankumba in Mangochi on Friday as one way of paying their last respect to their fellow colleague in arms, the late Major Wales Aidini.
Aidini, an airplane technician, died together with the Vice President Dr. Saulos Chilima and seven others in a tragic plane crash in Chikangawa Forest on Monday.
Speaking on behalf of the President, Dr. Lazarus Chakwera, Minister of Trade and Industry, Sosten Gwengwe said that Aidini is a fallen hero, who died while serving the country.
Gwengwe, who was accompanied by Minister of Energy, Ibrahim Matola, described the Chikangawa tragedy as a big loss to the country, as it has taken away very productive citizens.
“Personally, I have traveled in that plane for in so many occasions,” he said of the plane that remains a wreckage.
“Apart from that, I was with the Vice President and some of our departed friends in South Korea just a few hours before the accident. As such, I am very confused as it is so painful and difficult to believe that our colleagues are no longer with us,” the Minister said.
Gwengwe asked communities to exercise patience and restraint while waiting for the results of an investigation of what really happened leading to the plane crash.
“You will appreciate the fact that President Chakwera has made a directive on the launch of an investigation that will lead to the establishment of what really happened. As such, let us exercise patience while we are waiting for results of that investigation,” he said.
Land Forces Commander, Major General Chikunkha Soko said Aidini was a dedicated as well as committed soldier.
Soko said Aidini joined the military in 2001 and later did a number of Aircraft Engineering courses.
“Due to his hard work and education, Wales was promoted in 2017 as Captain and in 2020 as Major.” he added.
“He had four medals to his credit and worked under the United Nations in Ivory Coast and in DRC. We have lost an icon,” he said.
Member of Parliament for Mangochi-Monkey Bay, Ralph Jooma said he was lost with words at the death of Aidini, whom he described as a brother.
“Among the children we considered as educated in our area was Wales. It is so painful,” he said.
“I just received an invitation to their family function in the coming months. But as of now, he is no longer with us. With that, we are speechless,” Jooma added.
He commended President Chakwera for issuing a directive for an investigation into the tragic death of Chilima, crew and the other five passengers in Chikangawa on June 10, 2024.
In his eulogy, representative of the bereaved family, Omega Mlelemba said the deceased has left a gap as he was the bread-winner for the whole family.
“As a family, we are speechless for the passing on of our brother. We were all going to him to ask for support, as such, we have been left hopeless,” she said.
Born on February 16, 1981, Aidini is survived by a wife and five children.
Updated programme for funeral programme
By Naomi Langisi
Lilongwe, 14 June, MANA: Minister of information Moses Kunkuyu has announced the change of programme for the burial ceremony of the late Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima.
He disclosed this Friday in Lilongwe during the press briefing that the President would be at the mortuary at 1:00 pm to lead the ceremony to St Patrick’s Parish in Area 18 where there would be mass and the body would to Area 12,
Kunkuyu said on Saturday the body of Chilima would be taken to Parliament until Sunday morning.
On Sunday, the President would be at Parliament to take the body to Bingu National Stadium in Area 48 where there will be different activities to honour the late Vice President.
Burial will take place on Monday at his home village for burial at Nsipe in Ntcheu.
Kunkuyu urged all politicians to avoid doing campaigns during this sorrowful period and they are working hand in hand with the relatives of the late vice president.
Afreximbank condoles President Chakwera
By Tikondane Vega
Nassau, June 14, Mana: African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) President, Prof. Benedict Oramah has condoled President, Dr Lazarus Chakwera for the tragic loss of his Vice President Saulosi Chilima and eight others during a plane crash on Monday.
Prof. Oramah sent the condolence message during his keynote address on Thursday evening at the ongoing Afreximbank annual meeting being held in Bahamas at Baha Mar Convention, Arts & Entertainment Center in Nassau, from June 12-15, 2024.
At the meeting that has brought together on one platform thousands of people, including African and Caribbean leaders and senior government officials, policymakers, corporate leaders, bankers, academia, and other leaders, Orama urged the gathering to put Malawians into prayers as the country was going through its difficult time.
“Before I start my speech I would like to condole President, Chakwera and Malawians at large due to the plane accident that has claimed the life of Vice President, Dr. Saulosi Chilima and eight others. We were supposed to have Malawi leader at this meeting but he failed to make it due to this loss.
“I am sending my condolence message and prayers to the Malawi leader and should feel that we are together during this trying moment. May all those who lost their lives rest in peace and God should console the bereaved families,” he said.
On this, Oramah said his bank has been helping Malawi in different ways and shall continue to do so in many years to come in areas of infrastructural development and mega-farms among other important areas as one way to uplift socio-economic development.
Afreximbank, recently initiated construction of the “Magwero Industrial Park” in Lilongwe, an integrated industrial park set to accelerate the country’s industrialization.
At the Bank's Annual General meeting, several speakers including the African Union sent a condolence message to the Malawi government, and during the opening of the gathering on Monday, delegates observed a one-minute silence as a way of paying their respects to the late Vice President.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary, Dr Mwaiwawo Polepole who is leading Malawi delegates told Malawi News Agency (Mana) in Nassau that the condolence messages are showing unity and love to Malawi and commended delegates for the gesture.
Dr Polepole said Malawi's presence at the meeting signifies the commitment that President Chakwera's administration has to trade and investment which was a key focus in the Banks 2024 meeting.
In recognition of the increasingly closer linkages between Africa and the Caribbean and the movement towards a Global Africa uniting Africans, their diaspora, and descendants worldwide, the three-day event is taking place jointly with the 3rd Afri-Caribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF).
WHO urges substantial funding to lifesaving blood donations?
By Lisa Lamya
Blantyre, June 14, Mana: World Health Organization (WHO), Africa Region has stressed the need to raise adequate and sustainable funding in a bid to continue to build systems and capacities to increase blood donation rates and separate donated blood into its components that can be stored for long-term use.
The WHO made the statement in a message from WHO Africa Region Director, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti as the global community is set to commemorate World Blood Donor Day Friday.
The Day which is commemorated annually will this year be observed under the theme: “20 years of celebrating giving: Thank you, blood donors!”
According to Moeti, the 20th anniversary was a time to reflect on achievements, address challenges and envision a future where safe blood transfusion is universally accessible as well as a time to remember the health of blood donors and the quality of care accorded to such people.
She said this was critical in encouraging them and building the commitment and willingness to donate blood regularly.
“I recommend that communities support those who donate blood to encourage others to donate. This has the potential to create an exponential increase in the availability of life-saving donor blood when and where it is needed most,” Moeti said.
She encouraged organizations to support capacity building efforts for efficient National Blood Transfusion Services.
Moeti emphasized on the critical role that blood transfusion plays in the provision of lifesaving health care to vulnerable people, such as mothers during childbirth, under-nourished and malaria-affected children, victims of trauma and accidents and patients suffering from sickle cell and other chronic diseases.
Malawi Blood Transfusion Services (MBTS) has postponed this year’s commemoration for the World Blood Donor Day which was slated for Saturday, June 15, 2024 following the death of Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima and eight others in a tragic plane crash earlier this week.
In a statement signed by MBTS Marketing and Public Relations Manager, Janet Katonda, MBTS arrived at the decision following the President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera’s declaration that the nation should observe 21 days of mourning in honour of late Chilima and others killed in the accident.
