MANAonline
WORI brings hope to girls in Thyolo
By Dalitso Kampira
Thyolo, June 2, Mana: In a district where 662 adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) underwent unsafe abortions between January and September 2024 alone, the story of one young woman from Traditional Authority (T/A) Bvumbwe puts a human face on a crisis many prefer to ignore.
Mary (not real name), 28, was devastated when her husband denied responsibility for her pregnancy, saying he was not ready since their first child was only three years old.
"He abandoned me to look after myself and the pregnancy,” she recounted.
Feeling trapped, Mary took abortion-inducing drugs and the results were instant and nerve-chilling: she collapsed and if it wasn’t for the swift action by her relatives, she could have been no more.
"But even then, upon discharge, the community fined me K100,000 for breaking local rules," she said.
Mary is just one among many. According to a recent assessment by the Women’s Rights Institute (WORI), the 662 unsafe abortion cases reported in Thyolo signal a growing challenge driven by limited access to Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services, stigma, and poor communication between parents and youth.
“These barriers are pushing girls toward unsafe decisions,” said WORI District Project Officer, Kuunika Kamende. “We are addressing this through a €30,000 project aimed at improving SRH access.”
Another 16-year-old girl from the area, Thoko (not her real name), became pregnant while still in school.
"At first, I feared that my dream of becoming a nurse was shattered. But after delivering my baby, my parents encouraged me to return to school.
“And thanks to the WORI SRHR project, I now understand how to protect myself. I have hope again,” said Thoko, beaming.
Similar sentiments were shared by Yulita Daudi from Chide Village. She described how poverty pushed her into prostitution at just 16 years old.
“I lacked school materials and parental guidance. I turned to sex work to survive,” she said.
Yulita’s turning point came when she was rescued by Lonely Mbalangwe, Chairperson of Kuunika Women Group under WORI and, now, she is back in school and rebuilding her life.
The project’s positive ripple effects have been felt across communities. Traditional Authority Bvumbwe praised WORI for its vital role in reducing early marriages and unsafe abortions, noting that the fear of penalties and rising awareness have influenced behavior change.
“Our girls are more informed now. They understand the consequences of their choices,” the chief said.
Susan Cement, Chairperson of a local mother group, echoed the praise, stating that before WORI came in, it was hard to access SRH services, unlike now when girls can seek help without shame.
According to Cement, the women even formed four groups to help keep girls in school,
“WORI’s efforts have not only improved access to services. but empowered the youth with knowledge,” she said, and continued: “Girls are now well-versed in contraceptive use, and they are actively avoiding risky behavior.”
Peer Educator Bridget Muhome from Group Village Headman Thunga said more initiatives are needed.
“We have made progress, but we must not stop here,” Muhome said.
According to WORI Programmes Officer, Chisomo Phaiya, the SRHR project successfully reached 1,500 AGYW in Thyolo.
“We are proud of the transformation we have seen. The project has phased out, but its impact will continue,” she said.
Thyolo’s Youth-Friendly Health Services Coordinator, Steve Dimba, underscored the importance of a united approach, noting that concerted efforts are needed to tackle issues of unsafe abortions.
“The health sector alone cannot solve this. We need joint efforts to expand youth-friendly services and eliminate the root causes of unsafe abortions,” he said.
As the statistics show, and personal stories reveal, Thyolo is at a crossroads. But through the work of organizations like WORI and the courage of girls who choose to rise above their circumstances, there is hope for a future where every young woman is safe, informed, and empowered.
National youth Summit preparations at an advanced stage
By Austine Kananji
Lilongwe, June 2, Mana: National Youth Council of Malawi (NYCOM) says 2025 National Youth Summit preparations are at an advanced stage.
The event is scheduled to take place at Bingu International Conference Centre (BICC) from the 2nd to the 4th of July.
Speaking during a press briefing held at BICC on Monday, Executive Director of NYCOM, Rex Chapota says the 2025 Summit is on and the preparations are going well adding the event has received an overwhelming response from the youth nationwide and that some partners have committed to support the summit.
“15 partners have committed to support the budget of the summit, and also the confirmation from President Lazarus Chakwera to grace the summit is a great encouragement to the youth agenda of this nation.
“The summit will be an engine for inclusive development, economic empowerment and social cohesion of young people,” Chapota said.
Youth key staff member championing the issues of the National Youth Summit, Doreen Chilije, said in the upcoming summit she expects to have a voicing platform and get a response from relevant authorities.
This year's National Youth Summit will be held under the theme of Harnessing Youth Innovation for Economic Empowerment and Sustainable Job Creation Towards Malawi 2063.
The theme re-enforces the central role of young people in driving innovation, economic transformation and job creation to achieve Malawi`s long-term vision of becoming a self-reliant inclusive.
Likoma district registers a suspected case of Mpox
By Ireen Mseteka
Likoma, June 2, Mana: Director of Health and Social Services (DHSS) for Likoma, Dr. Gracewell Mathewe says the district has registered one suspected Mpox case.
According to a notice issued by Mathewe on Sunday, the suspected case is from a 25-year-old male from Mozambique.
"The suspect is presenting with symptoms pointing towards or suggestive of Mpox disease. The patient is currently admitted in an isolated room at St Peter's Hospital and is getting necessary medical care," reads the notice.
It further says that necessary protocols have been put in place to confirm whether the case is Mpox disease or not.
District Environmental Health Officer for Likoma, Alfred Nyasulu said a Virus Transporting Media (VTM) Mpox Test Kit is already at the hospital saying the hospital is only waiting for transport to send the sample to the main laboratory in Lilongwe.
"The VTM Mpox Test Kit used for exporting samples is already here, this means that the sample will be taken to Lilongwe for testing as soon as transport is available," said Nyasulu.
As one of the preventative measures, he said that hospital staff have already been informed about the suspected case adding that once confirmed positive, people in the district will be informed and sensitized on the availability of the disease.
Anglican church commended for contributing towards national development
By Ireen Mseteka
Likoma, June 2, Mana: Minister of Homeland Security, Ezekiel Ching’oma has commended Anglican church for contributing towards the development of the country.
Ching’oma said this on Sunday during the 30th Anniversary celebration of St Peters Cathedral Church in Likoma which is under Anglican Diocese of Northern Malawi since 1995.
“The administration of President Lazarus Chakwera, is pleased with your church because it is playing a vital role in contributing towards the development of the country such as the construction of schools and hospitals.
“St Peters Hospital is serving a lot of people including those from Mozambique and many people have attained their education through the schools which you have here. In addition, this church attracts a lot of tourists, being a historical church,” said Ching’oma.
He said apart from developmental activities, the church is at the forefront of preaching the word of God through its Hosana Radio Station.
Diocesan Bishop Rt. Rev Fanuel Magangani of the Anglican Diocese of Northern Malawi said the celebration was a milestone for the church, asking members to look back and thank God for the achievements.
“As we look back at what God has done, it should also help us to look forward with a new strategic plan that can lead us to the development of the church in terms of the investments, evangelism, schools, and hospitals,” said Magangani.
President Chakwera, through Ching’oma, contributed K1 million while Ching’oma himself contributed K500,000 to the church.
Mchinji Women Advancing Immunization Agenda
By Vincent Khonje
Mchinji, June 2, Mana: Mother Care Groups (MCGs) in Mchinji are advancing the immunization agenda in hard-to-reach areas, enabling more children to receive life-saving vaccines and prevent diseases.
Chairperson for Nzama MCG, Sophlet Bakayawo, in an interview with Malawi News Agency, on Sunday said the groups have been instrumental in mobilizing women and sensitizing communities about the importance of immunization.
“We meet regularly to discuss how we can improve child health in our villages. One of our key focus areas is immunization. We go door to door and encourage people to take their children to the under-five clinics,” said Bakayawo.
Secretary for Matutu-Msasi MCG, Rhoda Chikudzulire, highlighted how misinformation has affected vaccination uptake among caregivers.
“Lack of information on vaccines has made many women embrace beliefs that giving vaccines to children is a bad thing. We have gone flat out, holding meetings with duty bearers, chiefs, and community members to provide accurate information about vaccines.
“It is worth noting that those who held such beliefs have changed their mindsets,” said Chikudzulire, who added that even men go to under-five clinics with their children if mothers are tied up.
With the MCGs in place, Mchinji has observed a significant increase in attendance at immunization clinics in areas where these groups are active, consequently, there is also an increase in vaccine coverage.
Expanded Programme on Immunization coordinator for Mchinji, Davis Sambikeni, stated that as of 2024, Mchinji achieved 83 per cent coverage of vaccines.
“We are making progress when we compare to some two to three years ago, where we could not meet 80 per cent coverage. By then, we were 78 per cent and below,” said Sambikeni.
Some of the vaccines being administered include BCG, Pentavalent, Rotavirus, Measles-Rubella, and the newly introduced HPV vaccine for girls aged 9 to 14.
The formation of MCGs was made possible by the Centre for Research and Development Initiative (CERADI), with backing from the Malawi Health Equity Network (MHEN), which is implementing the Health Systems and Immunization Strengthening Project with support from the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI).
Blantyre DC says CS-EPWP implementation on track
By Memory Kutengule Chatonda
Blantyre, June 1, Mana: Blantyre District Commissioner, Alex Mdooko, says the district is on track in implementing the Climate Smart Enhanced Public Works Programme (CS-EPWP), which is aimed at restoring degraded landscapes and improving the livelihoods of communities living in various catchment areas.
Mdooko said this recently in Blantyre during a review meeting of CS-EPWP, which brought together extension workers, designated desk officers and District Environmental Sub-Committee members to assess progress in the implementation of the programme in 15 catchments.
The District Commissioner observed that tangible assets created during CS-EPWP’s execution were commendable and meaningful and commended all key stakeholders for their dedication in the implementation of the programme.
Mdooko however emphasized the need for stakeholders’ collaboration, saying this was a sure way of achieving meaningful impact under the CS-EPWP.
“We have project coordinators, desk officers, and lead persons in place that should consistently share notes and implementation challenges. I expect stakeholders to revisit agreed action points from the quarterly review meetings and assess the progress made,” he said.
The District Commissioner also highlighted that participants recruitment process for all social support programmes, such as the Social Cash Transfer and Public Works, is guided by the Unified Beneficiary Register (UBR), with poverty levels as a key determinant
“Therefore, we must ensure that our implementation processes minimize inclusion and exclusion errors. Proper targeting is critical to reaching the most deserving households,” added Mdooko.
District Project Facilitator for CS-EPWP in Blantyre, Aubrey Jazza, said the programme has so far created visible, durable, and high-quality assets in various catchment areas, which are helping to improve household resilience to shocks, enhance household income, and strengthen food security, among other benefits.
CSEPWP is funded by the World Bank and Multi-Donor Trust Fund.
Mwalilino’s strike silences Bullets as Bishop backs rising star
By Santos Zefania
Lilongwe, June 01, Mana: President and Founder of Amazing Grace Christian Ministry has rewarded Mighty Wanderers Striker Blessings Mwalilino with money amounting to K100,000, as one way of encouraging young talents, saying sporting activities play a big role in shaping a better future for youths.
In an interview with Malawi News Agency (MANA) on Sunday, Bishop Chimwemwe Chafumuka expressed his gratitude following an impressive goal scored by Mighty Wanderers striker Mwalilino against Bullets on Saturday, during Blantyre derby.
“It’s important to be involved in sports since it keeps people, especially the youth, away from bad behaviour, therefore, we need to support sports for it builds discipline and gives hope among them, As a sports lover and a servant of God, I believe in supporting youths who invest in their skills positively," Chafumuka explained.
Mwalilino’s solitary strike brought a hush over the Palestiner’s banquet, as he earned the prestigious Lali Lubani outfit; finally ending the long wait to overshadow their traditional Accra rivals, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets
Wanderers sit second in the standings of Malawi’s top-flight league with 16 points and a game in hand, just two points behind league leaders FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, who have 18 points from seven matches.
MITC-XISE US$5bn investment deal excites investors, economists
By Kondwani Magombo
Lilongwe, June 01, Mana: Malawian investors and economists have described the US$5 billion investment deal that the Malawi Investment and Trade Centre (MITC) has clinched with Chinese firms for a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) at Chipoka, Salima, as "game changer" that will turn Malawi into a regional hub for trade and manufacturing.
MITC announced recently that the Centre's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Kruger Phiri, successfully pitched the ambitious investment deal at high-profile Xidian International Stock Exchange (XISE) forum in Changsha, Hunan Province, in China, attracting eight Chinese firms to finance the project.
According to the statement that MITC released recently, the eight Chinese companies formalized cooperation agreements to participate in Chipoka’s development.
"Leading the charge is Liaoning Jingmao Quantum Technology Company Limited, pledging a US$520 million investment in infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, and mining—with execution starting as early as June 2025. Meanwhile, Kings Group committed US$100 million to establish a state-of-the-art fertilizer plant, further anchoring Malawi’s agri-industrial ambitions," the statement read in part.
It further said other than spotlighting Malawi on the global map, XISE has paved way for strategic alliances that could redefine the country’s economic landscape.
Malawian investor based in the US, Michael Matengula, and UK based Malawian economist, Velli Nyirongo, have since expressed their excitement about the deal, saying it will, among others, "reshape" Malawi's tourism economy when it materializes.
"As an investor with a keen interest in emerging markets, I am both impressed and inspired by the bold steps Malawi is taking to position itself as a competitive destination for global capital," Matengula, who is CEO for Sharp Valley Holdings LLC - US, told Malawi News Agency (MANA) through an emailed questionnaire.
"The US$5 billion investment agreement signed at the XISE forum is not just a financial milestone: it is a visionary leap towards economic transformation," he added.
He further described the deal as a game-changer, and that it signals Malawi's readiness to engage with the world on a new level, one that is strategic, forward-looking, and rooted in sustainable development.
According to Matengula, the commitment from Chinese partners, especially in infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, and agri-industrial sectors, reflects confidence in Malawi's potential and governance.
He further noted that the investment initiative aligns "seamlessly" with the Malawi 2063, with potential to revolutionize Malawi's economy by diversifying its industrial base, enhancing export capacity, and attracting further foreign direct investment.
Similarly, the UK based Malawian economist, Velli Nyirongo, told MANA via a WhatsApp questionnaire that the deal will provide the "much-needed boost" to the economy through increased capital inflows, job creation, and the rapid growth of both industry and infrastructure.
Nyirongo, who is a consultant and global lead for an organization called Centre for Green Economy in Developing Countries, said the phased nature of the investment, starting with significant early funding, shows strong confidence in Malawi’s potential to become a regional hub for trade and manufacturing.
"This agreement stands out as a milestone in Malawi’s economic history: It shifts the country from diplomatic talks to concrete financial commitments and strong international partnerships.
"The involvement of eight Chinese companies reflects a well-rounded approach to industrialization and value addition, which Malawi urgently needs," said Nyirongo.
He further noted that the deal supports Malawi’s vision of developing secondary cities and that, moving forward, the country should use the existing partnership to drive other key projects, such as further development of the Chipoka area, the Shire-Zambezi Waterway, Cape Maclear, and other strategic locations that, when transformed, can give Malawi a strategic competitive advantage in trade and tourism.
Nyirongo continued that beyond short-term economic benefits, the partnership raises Malawi’s profile on the global investment stage, and he hoped that it will encourage technology transfer, and pave way for more alliances that reshape the economy.
"More than just a financial deal, this agreement is a springboard for Malawi’s long-term growth and a step in the right direction towards deeper integration into global value chains," he added.
Nyirongo's remarks echo MITC CEO's sentiments in the recent statement, which summed the US$5 billion Chipoka investment deal as being about “not just about signing deals,” but about "reshaping Malawi’s future through innovation, infrastructure, and industrial transformation.”
Unity crucial for African developments
By Prisca Promise Mashushu
Lilongwe, May 31, Mana: Minister of foreign affairs, Nancy Tembo has urged African countries to unite and work together in order to transform the continents development.
She made the remarks on Saturday during the African day celebrations that took place at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.
The minister commended all countries that participated in the event, as it has showcased various cultures, food and dances.
“We celebrate the African day to commemorate the day of the Organisation of the African Unity started by our forefathers, with the aim to develop Africa when we were coming from colonialism to independence.
“Africa has to unite and integrate in order to utilise the resources available for transformation of its countries;” she added.
Concurring with the Minister, Moroccan Ambassador to Malawi, Abdelikader Nahi said the day has exposed several resources, activities, dances and foods that can be used to transform countries by sharing and working together with one common goal.
“Celebrating African day crucial to all Africans as it has the potential to transform the countries by sharing and utilising the available resources which includes minerals, lakes, mountains and others.
“This day reminds us that we need to join efforts and work together to develop each other;” he said.
The day has been celebrated this year under the theme “Justice for Africans and people of African descendants through reparations”
The day is celebrated on May 25 every year.
Mwanza stadium construction nears completion
By Cassandra Mangulama and Memory Chulu
Mwanza, May 31, Mana: Construction of Mwanza Stadium which now nears completion is expected to improve sports development and other social activities related to sports in the district.
Speaking in an interview this week, Director of Lands and Public Works for Mwanza, Eric Nyekanyeka said the stadium will engage young people into sporting activities thereby improving physical fitness besides improving social interaction.
“The facility will not only benefit our youths but also support the district’s economic activities. It will help the council to generate financial resources through gate collections and we are expecting this to improve local revenue generation. This will also create business opportunities for vendors, restaurants and lodges among others during events,” he said.
During a visit to the site, Bonongwe Construction Service Manager, Maliseni Mtondera Tchire said that construction works of the stadium which started early this year is in its last phase.
“The project started with building of a perimeter brick fence and preparing the ground. Following government instructions to make the stadium unique, we made sure that we do quality works and we constructed a two storey VIP section which is now completed,” added Tchire.
He said the stadium`s ground floor has dressing and shower rooms, players’ toilets and a medic’s office while the upper floor includes VIP section and toilets, a conference room and sports administrator’s office.
The youths in Mwanza have welcomed the construction of the stadium describing it a positive development.
One of the youths in the district, Joel Gombwa said he will take advantage of the stadium to grow his football talent.
Maria Tailosi, a business lady said she was also looking forward to the completion of the Stadium and anticipated good business from those that will come to watch football and other events.
A visit to the project site shows that apart from football and netball grounds, the stadium has basketball and volleyball courts with other facilities such as public toilets and ticket offices at each corner completed.
President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera launched construction work of the Stadium in January last year,
