MANAonline
Dedza CS-EPWP participants paid on time this festive season
By: Steve Chirombo
Dedza, December 23, Mana: Participants under the Climate-Smart Enhanced Public Works Programme (CS-EPWP) who braved heat waves and gathered at Golomoti Agriculture offices in Dedza, have hailed government and Dedza council authorities for the timely payment of their wages, saying the money is a relief in this year's Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Conducting random interviews on Monday, several women expressed excitement during the programme’s pay parade in the area.
Malisera Petro from John village, Traditional Authority (T/A) Kachindamoto in the district said she will use the money to buy food and other things which together with her children will use to celebrate the festive season in style.
"We experienced dry spells during last year's growing season. I don't have food for my family and this money will greatly support my family during this festive season and beyond," Petro said.
83 year-old Velena Hauya from the same area expressed her gratitude with the programme saying the K48, 000 was a game changer for her household in this festive season.
Hauya said: "I am an old person who has never worked in my community and got a reward just like what CS-EPWP has done. These are initiatives that enable us to positively make contributions to our communities. Let it be noted that part of the money will be given to my grandchildren during this festive season to at least buy a few soft drinks.”
However, Holex Chilanga from Bizale Village, T/A Kachindamoto said he had no money to buy fertilizer and would specifically use the money for that.
"I had planted maize and currently it needs fertilizer. This payment is therefore timely. We have made swales and tree nurseries and paying us for the initiatives that equally support ourselves is quite interesting," stated Chilanga.
In her remarks, Computer Analyst, for Dedza district council, Elites Majawa said the challenges that are being experienced are almost the same in all the catchments in the district.
She said some participants lost their IDs and were advised on what to do.
“However, they haven’t followed the procedures. There are still options which we are doing if they provide additional required information," she said.
CS-EPWP District Project Facilitator for Dedza, Jocaster Mnemba Khoriyo said over 22, 000 have so far benefited from the programme in all the 24 catchments across the district.
The programmer is a social support for resilience being implemented by the National Local Government Finance Committee (NLGFC) with support from the World Bank and multi-donor trust fund.
Usi monitors Lean Season Food Insecurity Response Programme in Chiradzulu
By Evance Chisiano
Chiradzulu, December 24, Mana: Vice President, Michael Usi has called on Chiradzulku District Council and other local authorities in the country to do thorough registration of vulnerable people to reflect true pictures of those that deserve to benefit from Lean Season Food Insecurity Response programmes and other social protection programmes
Usi made the call on Tuesday at Chingoma Primary School ground, Traditional Authority Mpunga where he monitored relief maize distribution to vulnerable households as the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DODMA) distributed bags of maize.
“Let us do proper work to register all people who deserve to receive humanitarian support. I know some other people deserve to be registered for humanitarian assistance,” the Vice President added.
He therefore called on people in Chiradzulu to openly tell their problems to authorities so that their problems can be addressed on time.
“Be open enough to tell those in authority your problems. We are here to solve people’s problems,” Usi said and commended Traditional Authority Mpunga for openly telling her subjects problems in the face of the current food situation.
He said was impressed that Traditional Authority Mpunga explained openly the extent of hunger situation in her area where the food situation is critical.
Traditional Authority Mpunga has since called on government to increase the number of people who should benefit from the Lean Response Food Insecurity programme and other interventions that should improve people's livelihood citing Social Cash Transfers and Climate Enhanced Climate Smart Public Works Programme.
She said the food situation in her area is worse as most households have nothing to depend on other than handouts while repeatedly calling for the authorities to increase more households for the relief food.
“There are many households that deserve relief food. It is just unfortunate that some deserving households are not registered to receive relief food,” Traditional Authority Mpunga added as 3,873 people are expected to receive food in her area.
DoDMA Commissioner, Charles Kalemba said the department was aware of the food situation in the country and was mandated to provide food assistance to affected households through Lean Season Food Insecurity Response progrmme, which is currently taking place in drought-affected districts.
Before visiting Chiradzulu, the Vice President also monitored the Lean Season Food Insecurity Response Programme in Mangochi, Balaka and Zomba on Monday and Tuesday.
He said DoDMA is working according to Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee (MVAC) reports that show the food situation in the country.
“We will continue providing relief maize to affected households,” Kalemba assured people in Chiradzulu.
Chiradzulu District Commissioner, Francis Matewere discloses that 26,413 people in the district need humanitarian food assistance.
The Vice President is expected to visit Chikwawa on Thursday to monitor relief food distribution.
FARMSE and OIM launch Tree planting at Nsinja.
By Pickson Chipeso
Lilongwe, December 23 Mana; Farming Access for Rural Markets Smallholders and Enterprises (FARMSE), in conjunction with Opportunity International Malawi, launched a tree-planting initiative at Nsinja.
Speaking at the event in Traditional Authority Masula, in Lilongwe, on Monday, Opportunity International Malawi's Project Coordinator, Vitumbiko Lungu Moyo, emphasized the importance of environment-friendly practices.
"We plant trees based on environmental climate training conducted with Community-Based Financial Institutions (CBF) in Nsinja.
"We encourage tree planting at both community and national levels, as well as promote environmentally friendly businesses among CBF, also known as village banks," she said.
Moyo noted that Nsinja's proximity to Dzalanyama Forest,as a charcoal-producing area, presents an opportunity for sustainable practices.
She said they are encouraging village banks to adopt businesses that benefit the climate and environment.
According to FARMSE District Project Coordinator, Brown Phulusa, this is a positive event, especially considering the rampant deforestation and it offers an opportunity to demonstrate the importance of tree planting and environmental conservation.
Phulusa emphasized that participants, including CBF members, will take part in planting one or two trees and learn how to care for them from forestry experts. By doing so, they will understand the value of tree planting and become ambassadors for environmental conservation.
He stressed that climate change is a pressing issue, citing frequent droughts, floods, and dry spells as evidence.
"Tree planting helps mitigate the effects of climate change and slows it down. Trees act as a buffer zone, absorbing carbon dioxide and reducing greenhouse gases. They also facilitate rainwater infiltration, reducing surface runoff during heavy rainfall," he said.
Phulusa concluded that events like this are crucial in promoting environmental awareness and encouraging communities to take action against climate change.
The councillor for Nsinja ward has expressed gratitude to FARMSE and Opportunity International Malawi for organizing a tree-planting event, highlighting the importance of restoring damaged natural resources in Nsinja and across Malawi. He emphasized that tree planting is the key to reviving these resources.
This event follows the launch of the National Tree Planting initiative in Mzuzu by Vice President Dr. Michael Usi, which aims to promote reforestation and environmental conservation from December 15, 2024, to April 17, 2025. The councillor's remarks underscore the critical role that tree planting plays in mitigating the effects of climate change and preserving Malawi's natural heritage.
Ashraful Aid enhances road safety for Kabaza operators
By Agatha Kadzinje
Blantyre, December 24, Mana: Ashraful Aid International Humanitarian Organization has intensified road safety measures for Kabaza operators in Blantyre to help minimize accidents and ensure safer rides during this festive season.
The organization has donated 1,000 reflective vests and 3,000 reflector tapes to Kabaza operators from Makhetha, Kameza, Chinsewu, Ndirande, Limbe Central, Chirimba, Kapeni, Bvumbwe, Soche, Mpemba, Mbayani, Bangwe, and Njamba ranks.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony held at Njamba Freedom Park in Blantyre on Monday, Ashraful Aid’s Country Director, Abbas Panjwani, emphasized the importance of using safety gear to reduce accidents.
Panjwani said that Kabaza is an essential means of transport, just like any other, and operators must protect themselves to ensure the safety of their passengers.
“In recent years, Kabaza has become increasingly popular among Malawians, especially during festive seasons. Therefore, ensuring the safety of operators is crucial to saving precious lives,” he said.
Panjwani encouraged the summoned Kabaza operators to not just keep the vests but should make them part of their uniform.
He disclosed that Ashraful Aid has partnered with Quarry King, Easy Pack Limited, Build Africa, Speed Courier, and Hisco to implement this initiative.
Blantyre Police Urban Traffic Officer, Superintendent Cassim Symone, highlighted that most accidents involving Kabaza operators are avoidable and are often caused by their failure to follow road safety rules.
“Many accidents occur because Kabaza operators speed unnecessarily and lack the proper safety gear, making them avoid traffic police. Operators must prioritize road safety for their own good and the safety of others,” said Symone.
He urged Kabaza operators to register their motorcycles with the police to enhance recognition and facilitate assistance in case of accidents or other issues.
“Registration should be a priority for anyone starting a motorcycle business. It not only provides an identification record but also aids in insurance claims in case of accidents,” Symone explained.
Symone commended Ashraful Aid’s initiative, expressing hope that the provision of safety gear would help reduce road accidents in Blantyre.
“We expect operators to wear the safety gear provided, including helmets for both themselves and their passengers,” he added.
One of the Kabaza operators, Jones Steven, expressed gratitude for the donations, noting that they would help reduce incidents of robbery and accidents.
“This initiative will improve our safety and that of our customers. I encourage my fellow operators to report accidents to their rank chairpersons and the police for effective assistance during and after the festive season,” Steven said.
He condemned the behaviour of drinking and smoking while on duty, emphasizing that such actions compromise safety on the roads.
He called on the government to reconsider the high fees for registration and insurance, pointing out that many operators do not own the motorcycles they use and cannot afford these costs with their current earnings.
CHISI ISLAND ELECTRIFIED
By Tabbu Kitta Kauye
Zomba, December 24, Mana: For the first in many years, the people of Chisi Island in Zomba now have electricity, thanks to the 46.2 Kilowatt Min grid that the government in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have constructed.
Speaking after the inauguration of the Mini-grid, 58-year-old resident Olida Mitungwi, expressed joy with the development saying their lives have completely transformed.
"I cannot believe that Chisi Island has electricity now, I have longed to see this day, and I am glad I am alive to finally witness this groundbreaking move.
"Travelling to the mainland every time we needed services that required electricity, was a risk, because lake winds are not stable, at the same it was expensive, now I am glad that we can do everything on the island,” said Mitungwi.
Mitungwi also lamented the difficulties of travelling on the lake to access services like maize milling and how they were forced to throw maize flour in the lake when wings were strong.
In his speech, Minister of Energy Ibrahim Matola said the construction of the Mini-grid is testimony to Government's commitment to increase universal access to sustainable electricity for every Malawian.
President Chakwera promises Malawians continued development
By Bishop Witmos
Mangochi, December 23, Mana: Malawi`s President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has emphasized that his government is committed to ensure Malawi-s economic growth, despite challenging weather conditions that the country is currently facing.
He was speaking to a mammoth crowd upon arrival at Mangochi boma, on his way to Chikoko Bay State Lodge,
The President said that through various projects, his administration is dedicated to improve food security, infrastructure development, as well as providing economic opportunities to Malawians.
‘‘The First Lady and I are excited to receive warm welcome by people in Mangochi. As you are aware, my administration has demonstrated commitment to uplifting livelihoods of Malawians through various development projects. However, I am aware of challenges that Malawians are facing due to the effects of climate change.
‘‘We are so touched whenever we see victims of cyclones, let us not lose hope, you have a government that considers the welfare of its citizens,’’ said Chakwera.
He therefore assured people in Mangochi of continued development by his administration to satisfy their development aspirations.
‘‘My administration has achieved a number of projects in Mangochi, such as the Nkhudzi-Bay water supply system, which is supplying water to many households across the district. We have constructed the Cape Maclear road that will assist to boost tourism,” he said, adding that his government has also done a lot in the health sector, citing constructing health facilities such as the Makanjira Rural Hospital which will help to improve the wellbeing of the communities.
Chakwera said government was also embarking on the Makanjira road project whose funds have already been sourced and commended development partners for supporting various projects.
The President also said he was excited to see the mega farm initiative becoming a reality in Mangochi, where farmers have started practicing large-scale winter irrigation farming.
He appealed to young people in the country to refrain from engaging in political violence, saying that has no place in a democratic Malawi.
‘‘There are some people that would like to cause political violence, and they consider youths as a tool for such acts. I am therefore urging the youths to refrain from such.
“Let us continue to live in harmony. We are one nation,’’ Chakwera said.
In his remarks, Secretary General for Malawi Congress Party, Richard Chimwendo Banda commended President Chakwera for his commitment to unite Malawi, saying that will help the country to prosper.
Traditional Authority Mapira thanked government for embarking on relief maize distribution to vulnerable households under the Lean Season Food Insecurity Response Programme underway in the district.
He observed that the response will assist people currently facing food shortages and said so far a number of households in the district have already received the relief food.
Chitipa Women of Substance donate to Chitipa District Hospital
By Andrew Gondwe
Chitipa, December 22, Mana: Chitipa Women of Substance, a grouping of Chitipa Women Civil Servants on Saturday donated assorted items worth K300,000.00 to maternity and pediatric wards at Chitipa District Hospital in celebrating Christmas and New Year festive season.
In an interview with Malawi News Agency (Mana), Chairperson for the grouping, Suten Mwangomba said that the group decided to cheer the sick at the health facility as most patients lack some necessities while admitted at the hospital.
"We hope the gifts which we have donated today will ease emotional and physical challenges to patients especially those that have stayed long in the hospital and those that do not have relatives close to the facility," Mwangomba said.
Nursing Officer for Chitipa District Hospital, Grace Gollen thanked the women for the donation, which she said will help to ease some of the challenges patients and guardians face at the hospital.
"The door is open to all partners and well-wishers who want to assist our patients and even donating to the health facility as an institution,” said Gollen.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries of the donation, Efrida Musukwa, who had just given birth to a baby boy, commended the women for the gifts, saying the gesture was timely as people across the world would soon be celebrating Christmas and New Year.
“We have been provided with some basic needs such as sugar, salt and soap and this will assist us a lot especially those who have come from as far as Kameme, Misuku and Nthalire,” said Musukwa.
NICE Urges Journalists to Prioritize Governance and Democracy Reporting
By Charlie Ligomeka
Machinga, December 22 Mana: National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Trust on Sutarday trained news reporters in Machinga drawn from six media houses on governance and democracy reporting, noting that the media has proven a true partner in providing civic education and promoting good governance.
District Programmes Officer for NICE Trust, Francis Mugwa, said the training aimed at equipping the reporters with knowledge on democracy and good governance issues for effective reporting
“We want to provide reporters with the necessary knowledge regarding access to information. We will also have a media liaison officer responsible for communicating with reporters and offering training programmes,” Mugwa added.
He said that NICE Trust will facilitate reporters’ access to experts, provide travel grants, to promote transparency and accountability.
“We will ensure that NICE Trust operations, decisions, and actions are open and accessible to the public and media. This will help build trust and credibility,” he said.
He said NICE Trust recognizes the critical role the media plays in promoting democracy and governance on top of holding those in power accountable.
Speaking during the training, Machinga District Council spokesperson, Martin Chiwanda, said the training was relevant to the reporters who are responsible for reporting issues of governance and democracy.
“Most reporters shy away from reporting on these issues due to the time it takes to get responses from duty bearers. This prevents them from focusing on critical topics,” he said.
Chiwanda commended NICE Trust for organizing the training, observing this will help reporters understand rights to information access and procedures to follow when accessing information in the public interest.
“There is a need to fully train reporters to understand their role regarding Access to Information law and how they can get information in line with this law. It's unfortunate that many know they have that right but don't know the procedures,” Chiwanda said.
Haneeph Maula, a Machinga District based Nations Newspaper Correspondent hailed the capacity building session, saying the training was timely as reporters will be able to explore issues of democracy and good governance with better understanding.
He expressed optimism that the training will have a positive impact on the quality of reporting on issues of democracy and good governance.
The meeting was organized through Boma Lathu project with funding from the European Union and the Malawi Government.
Taxi driver found dead in his car in Nkhata Bay
By Aubrey Ghambi
Nkhata Bay, December 22, Mana: A taxi operator, Solomon Mhango, 27 was Saturday found dead in his taxi at Nkhata Bay Total Filling Station.
Confirming the incident with Malawi News Agency (Mana), Saturday, Public Relations Officer for Nkhata Bay Police, Kondwani James, said that, Mhango was reported to have been sick for the past few days.
He added that on the fateful day, the deceased informed his fellow taxi operators that he was not feeling well and needed to rest.
“Mhango eventually packed his vehicle at Nkhata Bay Total Filling Station resting on driver’s seat.
He stayed in the vehicle from Friday to Saturday, December 21,2024 and this raised alarm to his fellow drivers and they went where the vehicle only to find Mhango unconscious," said James.
He said that the matter was later reported to Nkhata Bay Police Station and officers rushed to the scene and took the driver to Nkhata Bay District Hospital he was confirmed dead.
“An autopsy conducted at the hospital revealed that Mhango died due to low blood sugar hypoglycemia and no suspected foul play.
Mhango hailed from Chikosera Village in the area of Traditional Authority Mthwalo in Mzimba District.
Dedza, Salima intensify nutrition funding probe
By Zenak Matekenya
Dedza, December 21, Mana: Dedza and Salima district councils have taken a proactive approach to addressing malnutrition by intensifying their probe into nutrition funding from the government to reduce malnutrition cases in the country.
Malnutrition remains a pressing issue in the country with malnourished children exposed to risk of suffering repeated illnesses and infections which result in significant economic burdens on families and healthcare system.
Through Oxfam’s Increasing Resources allocation and Prioritization Towards Nutrition Malawi project funded by GIZ, Dedza and Salima district councils have analyzed gaps in nutrition funding and developed minimum standard budgets to present to authorities as a lobbying tool.
Speaking Friday following a District Based budget analysis and minimum standard budgets development exercise for nutrition in Dowa, District Principal Nutrition and HIV Officer for Salima, Yamikani Makondi, said the effort is crucial in justifying the need for more funding.
“Government’s commitment towards nutrition funding is at least five percent of the district budget, but for Salima, for instance, we had a gap of about 3.7 percent because we had 1.3 percent allocation.
“Five percent is not adequate enough, but if we could access it all the better,” he said.
He emphasized that a crucial key in the fight against malnutrition lies in prevention itself, which encompasses cultivation of nutritious food to ensure steady supply of nutritive foods and preparation to ensures that the food preserves its nutritional value.
“Besides, utilization comes in to promote the consumption of nutritious foods and educating communities on key healthy eating habits,” he said.
District Principal Nutrition and HIV Officer Loti Makina said most interventions aimed at scaling up nutrition in Malawi are supported by partners, who often have specific areas of interest where they focus their resources.
He said this can create gaps in other equally important areas, leaving them underfunded and under addressed.
“Despite this challenge, government has taken a step forward by allocating funds towards nutrition, recognizing its critical role in the country's development. We are urging the government to do more,” he said.
Notably, he said Dedza has utilized some of these resources from government, to support households in developing backyard gardens, promoting a steady supply of nutritious foods.
Dedza district’s stunting rate has risen from 42 percent to 43.6 percent between 2023 and 2024 due to Elnino that led to poor farm produce against the country’s current stunting rate that stands at 37 percent with Salima at 34.5 percent.
Oxfam Nutrition and Food System Transformation Coordinator Chimwemwe Chilenga said the exercise was crucial to help district and the country to have a basis on how much is required to operate optimally.
“We have always complained of having limited resources, but we have never had a basis as to how much we need as a country, or as a district to operate optimally,” she said.
