MANAonline
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.
Malawi Hosts a Freshwater Ecosystem Mapping workshop
By: Golden Kang'oma
Salima, August 23, Mana: In a significant move to safeguard Malawi's unique aquatic biodiversity, a four-day workshop focusing on freshwater ecosystem types and ecological condition mapping has commenced in Salima district.
The event, held under the Spatial Biodiversity Assessment, Prioritization, and Planning (SBAPP) regional project, gathers experts from four Southern African countries, such as Malawi, South Africa, Namibia, and Mozambique.
Speaking during the official opening of the workshop on Wednesday, Director of Fisheries in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Climate Change, Dr. Hastings Zidana, said Lake Malawi stands as a global biodiversity hotspot.
He said, Lake Malawi is home to over 800 fish species and the workshop will help in finding means of protecting the species and putting the country on map.
He said: “Lake Malawi is not just a national or continental treasure; it’s a global one, so now our focus is now shifting from individual species to a holistic view of the entire ecosystem. This workshop is essential in helping us map out these ecosystems, identify biodiversity hotspots, and recognize areas that are under threat.”
Dr. Zidana emphasized the urgent need for a cooperative approach among neighboring countries that share the lake’s waters—Mozambique and Tanzania.
He said the region faces mounting threats from changing weather patterns, including cyclones and fluctuating water levels and underscored the importance of cross-border collaboration.
“Whatever happens in Tanzania’s uplands—whether it’s deforestation or erosion directly impacts Malawi’s side of the lake, so this shared responsibility necessitates joint scientific efforts to protect our shared water body.” he said.
SBAPP Project Steering Committee Chairperson and Director of Research and Outreach at Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST), Professor Alfred Maluwa, said the project is very important and noted that while terrestrial ecosystem mapping has been conducted, the focus now shifts to aquatic systems.
“The workshop marks a critical step in our efforts to conserve biodiversity and plan sustainable management of our ecosystems. Experts from SunBio, representing the South African government, are here to train us in aquatic assessment, equipping us to manage our lake and water systems more effectively with the resources we have,” said Maluwa.
The SBAPP project, is being funded by the French government and seeks to address the critical challenges facing biodiversity, particularly in freshwater systems.
The workshop is seen as a vital opportunity for Malawi to enhance its capacity in protecting ecosystems and ensuring the sustainability of aquatic species in Lake Malawi, amidst growing environmental pressures.
President Chakwera condoles Kasungu accident families
By Wanangwa Tembo
Kasungu, August 23, Mana: President Dr Lazarus Chakwera has sent a message of condolence to the bereaved families following the tragic minibus accident that happened Thursday morning in Kasungu District.
At least 26 people have been burnt to death when a minibus they were travelling in collided with a fuel tanker near Santhe in Kasungu District.
The minibus, registration number MZ 11670 going towards Lilongwe hit and killed a pedal cyclist before ramming into a Tanzanian fuel tanker coming the opposite direction before going up in flames.
“The First Lady and I are deeply saddened by the tragic road accident that occurred this morning at Katondo in Kasungu, claiming the lives of 26 people including two children.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and friends. May we find strength and comfort in God’s grace during this troubling time,” the President said in a statement.
Senior Chief Kaomba of Kasungu, speaking through a representative, said he is saddened by the tragic incident and described the deaths as a great loss not only for the families but also to the country as a whole.
Meanwhile, eight bodies, including that of a six-month old child, have been identified.
District Commissioner for Kasungu, James Kanyangalazi, said it is difficult to identify the others.
“I can confirm that we have so far managed to identify eight bodies and we feel we cannot identify any more.
“Sad to note that one of them is a six months old baby who has been burnt together with her mother and the two have been put in the same coffin,” Kanyangalazi told reporters at the mortuary on Thursday afternoon.
The mother of the baby has been identified as 28 year old Tiwonge Zimba from Luwelezi in Mzimba District.
The others include 26 year old Elvin Mzamo from Traditional Authority (TA) Chikulamayembe in Rumphi, Yohane Mwadzaangati, 32, from Chilazulu, Kondwani Masoko, 30, from TA M’mberwa, Wyson Williams from TA Mabulabo in Mzimba, Limbikani from Malivenji in TA Simlemba and Deliwe Chisi, 26, from TA Kaluluma in Kasungu.
Government through the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) has provided coffins, transport and money for food to all the bereaved families.
Kanyangalazi says government will provide any other assistance as need may arise until the remains are laid to rest.
He said the council is consulting the Ministry of Local Government, DoDMA and the bereaved families on how the rest of the bodies will be buried.
He said: “We haven’t reached that stage [on how we will bury those not yet identified]. Of course there are guidelines which are to be followed when such things happen and we are consulting.
“An alternative could be to bury them in mass grave, but then we still have to wait for proper advice.”
Kanyangalazi has since thanked the Malawi Defense Force, Police and health authorities who rushed to the accident scene to try to save lives.
“Unfortunately we did not manage to save anyone. It’s a sad time for us in Kasungu and we convey our sincere condolences to the bereaved families,” he said.
Chakwera gives hope to Malawians in diaspora
By Abel Ikiloni in Berlin, Germany
Berlin, August 23, Mana: President Dr Lazarus Chakwera has assured Malawians in diaspora of government’s commitment to addressing their concerns such as loans which some students are struggling to get for their studies as well as on voting rights.
He was speaking at Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Berlin, Germany on Thursday when he had an audience with Malawians living in Germany.
Chairperson for Umodzi wa aMalawi, Alexander Kambiri, commended the President for granting them an audience which he described as a huge opportunity to relay their policy proposals directly to the President.
He said, despite talking and having access to the Malawian embassy all the time, it works better when things are taken directly to the Head of State.
“There are three things we raised to be considered which are to enable students get scholarship in Germany, Malawian who were not be able to access university education should have an opportunity to go on vocational training in technical colleges in Germany, challenges that Malawians face in Germany and the issue of cultural exchanges.
“We are happy because we have received positive response for example the President says we will be able to vote while outside the country as that is our right.
There are over 250 Malawian families in Germany.
