MANAonline
Machinga chiefs urge politicians to do peaceful political campaign
By Charlie Ligomeka
Machinga, April 4, Mana: Traditional Authority (TA) M'chinguza of Machinga has appealed politicians in the district to do issue based election campaign that should unpack their manifestos other than indulging in hate speech that can easily ignite violence and bring disrespects to chiefs.
Speaking during a community engagement meeting in the district, Mchinguza further called on the politicians to desist from abusive songs that can potentially demean chieftaincy.
TA Mchinguza made the call at his headquarters at Nayuchi where he emphasized the need to accord chiefs their respect and dignity whenever politicians hold their campaign meetings.
“We need to be respected as the owners of this land. If you seek votes, there is no way you should speak bad of chiefs,
“Unpack your manifestos and plans for development, that's all,” Mchinguza added.
TA Mizinga, who chairs District Peace and Unity Committee in Machinga, also encouraged candidates in the September 16 elections to prioritize peaceful and respectful campaigning.
“Young people should be mindful and be responsible enough in promoting peace and unity rather than igniting violence.
"Do not let politicians exploit you with money to incite violence against other political parties or chiefs,” he appealed to young people.
Mizinga therefore called on political parties to be inclusive by encouraging young people, women, and people with disabilities to participate in politics and contest for positions of their choice.
The community engagement meeting was organized by Women's Legal Resources Centre (WOLREC) under the European Union-funded Gender Transformative and Youth Inclusive Democracy Project to promote a peaceful and inclusive campaign in Machinga East and Machinga North ahead of the September 16 tripartite election.
“Utilize this project to prove yourselves that you are responsible. Be ready to take up leadership roles and positions," he added.
Democratic Progressive Party Constituency Governor for Machinga East, Ishmael Wisiki, expressed concern over growing trends that see chiefs being disrespected.
He therefore pledged to advise his party followers to focus on issue issue-based and respectful campaign.
District Elections Officer for Machinga, Mwayi Mphezu, said Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) amended laws prohibit abusive language during campaigns.
Mombezi Court reopens to serve Chiradzulu communities
By Blackson Mkupatira
Chiradzulu, April 4, Mana: Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda says the Judiciary is committed to taking justice to hard-to-reach areas to ensure marginalized communities have access to justice.
Mzikamanda made the remarks Thursday during the relaunch of Mombezi Magistrate Court in Traditional Authority (TA) Mpama in Chiradzulu.
Mzikamanda said justice is not a privilege of a few but a human right and that everyone is entitled to access it.
"That is why the Judiciary is committed to serving all people in the country, whether rich or poor, young or old and the vulnerable.
"This commitment has led to the rehabilitation and operationalization of non-functional magistrate courts across the country," he said.
He stressed the importance of strengthening the relationship between the court and surrounding communities to promote the principle of people-centered justice.
Mzikamanda commended the role courts play in upholding justice in the country, saying Malawi is a beacon of democracy in the SADC region and this reputation is largely due to the contributions of the Judiciary.
Chiradzulu District Commissioner, Francis Matewere, said out of ten courts in the district, only five are functional, which compromises access to justice as people have to travel long distances to seek legal redress.
“In our district development plan, we want to promote access to social services including judicial services, so this is a milestone for us," he said.
Matewere appealed to the Judiciary to support capacity building for local leaders to ensure justice prevails at community level.
Chiradzulu District Magistrate, Smart Maruwasa, said the reopening of the magistrate’s court in the area will fast track case resolution and promote the rule of law in the district.
“We handle many cases, including theft and sexual offenses involving minors, which often experience delays in resolution. So, the reopening of this court will help reduce case backlog and ensure that justice is delivered in a timely and efficient manner,” he said.
Mombezi Magistrate’s Court was closed in 2015 and remained non-functional, affecting communities in Likoswe, Mpama, and Onga.
PIH, MoH intensify community awareness to combat TB in Neno
By Wellington Sibale
Neno, April 4, Mana: Partners in Health (PIH) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) have launched a community outreach initiative to raise awareness about tuberculosis (TB) in Neno District.
The campaign kicked off Wednesday at Ziphaka, a well-known local drinking joint, marking a significant step in extending TB education to marginalized communities.
The initiative follows World TB Day, observed on March 24 under the theme: "YES! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver" and aims to bridge the information gap particularly in areas where access to vital TB knowledge has been limited.
HIV/TB Program Officer for PIH, Charles Phiri, emphasized the importance of expanding awareness efforts beyond Neno Boma.
“For a long time, we have been sharing TB information around Neno Boma, but people in places like Ziphaka have not had the same privilege,” Phiri said.
He explained that the outreach specifically targets hard-to-reach populations where TB cases have been reported.
“Our goal is to engage with individuals we rarely meet in formal settings. We have recorded TB cases from Ziphaka, and by reaching out directly, we hope to encourage early diagnosis and treatment before the disease worsens,” he said.
He said beyond raising awareness, the initiative also seeks to support TB patients and survivors.
“We will also assist people who are battling or have recovered from TB by providing essential supplies because they require additional support,” Phiri noted.
Neno District TB Officer, Maggie Chatuwa, highlighted the impact of new diagnostic tools, particularly the recent acquisition of an X-ray machine, in improving TB detection and treatment.
“As a district, one of our biggest challenges has been reaching people in their communities for screening. We have mostly relied on passive screening at health facilities. However, with the X-ray machine, we hope to strengthen our efforts,” Chatuwa explained.
She said PIH has been instrumental in supporting TB control efforts in Neno by providing human resources, including microscopists working in health facilities, procuring medical supplies, and assisting TB patients with social support.
Chairperson for Ziphaka Drinking Joint, Lackson Malango, commended the initiative, acknowledging the risk of TB transmission due to overcrowding in their area.
“We live in congested spaces which increases the risk of TB spreading. Hygiene is crucial and we must take these messages seriously,” he said.
Chairperson for Neno Chikonde Market, Esther Kambeyani, praised the awareness drive and called for sustained efforts.
“We appreciate PIH and MoH for organizing this event. I hope it is not the last time we have such an important gathering. We will share this information with those who could not attend to help curb the spread of TB,” Kambeyani said.
The event was held under the theme; "Solidarity and Unity," reinforcing the need for collective action against policies that perpetuate inequality and exclusion.
The gathering called on communities to advocate for fair and just healthcare systems that serve everyone equitably.
Analysts anticipate competitive 2025 TNM Super League
By Pempho Nkhoma
Blantyre, April 3, Mana: As the TNM Super League season kicks off this Saturday in various grounds across the country, football analysts have expressed optimism that the season will be competitive, saying the intense rivalry among teams and good pre-season preparations promise to deliver mouthwatering matches.
Football Analyst, Anointed Kamsampha, told Malawi News Agency (MANA) on Thursday that supporters should expect great and competitive season considering some player transfers, coaches swapping sides and the hype of the league from previous season.
“We can’t predict on who will be champions but obviously the teams that are favorites to compete for the title are Nyasa Big Bullets, Silver Strikers and Mighty Wanderers. Still more dark horses like Blue Eagles and Ekhaya United who have recruited good squad can surprise us,” he said.
Kamsampaha, therefore, called upon football lovers to patronize the games saying that this also contributes to competitiveness as they encourage the players to work hard.
“I would like to encourage team coaches to accept defeat and refrain from using hate speech as that can incite violence among supporters. Officiation should always be neutral and make sure they are not influencing the outcome of the games,” he said.
Sports Analyst, Charles Nyirenda also known as Grandmaster, said the pattern this year may not be different from the 2024 scenario stating that it is the same top sides that have, once again, invested well prior to commencement of the 2025 TNM league season.
“My take is that teams with deeper squads comprising quality players, competent technical panels, more resources and sound management systems will once again do well.
“There is no magic wand to these things apart from what has been laid out here. Aside Blue Eagles, who won a trophy from the premier division last year, it was again the Big Three who grabbed national honors,” Nyirenda said.
The 2025 TNM Super League is scheduled to commence on Saturday with defending champions, Silver Strikers welcoming Nyasa Big Bullets at Bingu National Stadium, roockeys Ekhaya United will be playing against Mighty Tigers at Kamuzu Stadium while MAFCO FC will host Chitipa United at Chitowe Stadium.
Senior Chief Ndindi laid to rest with a call for peaceful succession
By Fostina Mkandawire
Salima, April 3, Mana: Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Richard Chimwendo Banda, has urged for a peaceful transition in selecting a successor to the late Senior Chief Ndindi.
The late Ndindi died on Tuesday at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe where he was referred to from Salima District Hospital for further treatment after suffering from appendicitis.
Speaking during the funeral ceremony on Thursday at Chipoka, Ndindi Headquarters in Salima Chimwendo Banda emphasized the importance of chieftaincy in ensuring stability and development in the community.
“I urge you to have a peaceful succession and to present the rightful person to the Ministry as quickly as possible,” he said.
He warned against chieftaincy wrangles, highlighting that chiefs play a crucial role in bringing prompt assistance and fostering unity in their areas.
Banda described the late Ndindi as a humble and selfless leader who always prioritized the welfare of his people.
“He believed in peace and unity, and always worked to unite different religions and tribes. He was at the forefront of ensuring harmony and serving his people’s best interests,” he said.
He said Senior Chief Ndindi was an honest man, full of integrity, with no trace of corruption in his leadership.
"His exemplary leadership, free from corruption and misunderstandings, set a high standard for his successor. We now look forward to a smooth and peaceful transition to ensure that his vision for Salima continues to thrive," he said.
Speaking on behalf of Salima Chiefs, Senior Chief Kalonga echoed the Minister’s sentiments, acknowledging the late chief’s extensive knowledge and dedication to his role.
“He was very dependable and served as a court clerk here in Salima. He was well conversant with issues and willing to share his knowledge with everyone. In meetings, his input was always valued,” Kalonga remarked.
He added that the district will deeply mourn Senior Chief Ndindi, especially for his wisdom on various important matters affecting the community.
Member of Parliament for Salima South East, Joseph Manja, also paid tribute to the late chief, remembering him as a development conscious leader.
“Some major developments such as the Chipoka landing site and Chipoka Secondary City will forever be part of his legacy,” Manja said.
He praised the chief’s impartiality in conflict resolution, noting that he was a peace loving leader who mediated disputes without favoritism.
The late Ndindi, whose real name was Juma Matola M'bwana was born on July 12, 1948.
He was installed as a Traditional Authority on July 30, 2015 and elevated to Senior Chief on May 31, 2023. He is survived by a wife and ten children.
LWC organizes Youth Leadership seminar
By: Mirriam Bwanali
Blantyre, March 3, Mana: The Living Waters Church (LWC) is organizing a youth leadership seminar to take place at Chimwankhunda LWC in Blantyre on May 17 under the theme; Creating a Spiritual Life for Leaders of Tomorrow.
Chairperson for LWC Youth Ministry in the Southern Region, Takondwa Kambwiri told Malawi News Agency on Wednesday that the seminar will equip the youth ministry leaders in the southern region of Malawi with necessary knowledge and skills in their respective leadership roles.
“The world is very dynamic and the youths continue to evolve in the social space and, as a Church, we play a big role in the lives of the youths,” explained Kambwiri, adding: “It is, therefore, important that those trusted with leadership roles in churches should be well equipped with both spiritual and social skills to properly lead, and help, other youth under their care.”
Kambwiri added that the seminar will be day-long, with over 200 youth leaders from many districts in southern region in attendance.
“The seminar is for all leaders in the youth ministry at all levels, starting from leaders in branches, sectors, zones, districts and, ultimately, the region: Our doors are always open to every youth from other churches that wants to attend,” he added.
News about the seminar has since excited the youth who have described the development as an opportunity to connect and network with potential mentors.
“This seminar will improve my leadership skills in leading the youth ministry that I am representing,” Steve Kamwachale, a youth from Mulanje Living Waters Church, told Malawi News Agency in an interview.
“I will develop essential leadership qualities such as strategic thinking, effective communication, and problem solving on top of deepening my spiritual life” he added.
Living Waters Church is a charismatic Christian church founded by Apostle Stanley Ndovi in 1985, and it has grown over the years, with a lot of congregations in most parts of Malawi.
Gender Justice Unit Launches Toll Free line
By Wongani Mkandawire
Nkhotakota, April 3, Mana: The Gender Justice Unit on Wednesday introduced a New Innovative project called Empower-line, that provides free access to legal information for survivors of Gender Based Violence.
Speaking with Malawi News Agency after the launch held at Nkhotakota District Council Chamber, Gender Justice Unit Project Officer Rosella Chibwana said that Empower-line Interactive Voice response aims at breaking the barrier for women and girls travelling long distances to seek help.
She added that the goal is to equip stakeholders with knowledge and skills to effectively utilize and to promote Empower-line as a legal resource for addressing Gender based violence in communities.
"We are introducing a Toll-free line where people can easily have access to basic legal information where they can simply call for free and listen to pre-recorded information on any issue, whether something related to the laws, or just to know their rights,” said Chibwana.
She added that there is also a mobile application which people connected to the internet can download and access the said information.
Speaking during the launch, Nkhotakota District's Principal Gender Officer, Alick Munthali, described the meeting as crucial as it brought together gender and child protection working groups, and provided key information that will contribute effectively to the efforts that the district is putting forth.
The project is supported by Segal Family Foundation, Embassy of Iceland and Procurement of IT Equipment and System Development.
MACRA connects Balaka CDSS students to ICT
By Andrew Phiri
Balaka, April 03, MANA: Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has said Information Communication Technology (ICT) skills among Community Day Secondary School (CDSS) students in Balaka will improve once Connect A School (CAS) Project is completed.
Speaking on Wednesday after touring Namikombe and St. Peters CDSS’s, where the two modern computer laboratories are being built respectively, MACRA's Board Member, Malla Kawale, expressed satisfaction with the work of contractors.
She said given the pace at which the world is developing technologically, MACRA will show its commitment to providing equal opportunities to both rural and urban secondary school students by enabling them connect with their peers globally.
"The workmanship of these laboratories is outstanding, and we hope that the finishing will also be good; As MACRA, we have adequate funds to complete this project and with what the contractors have told us, we are happy and optimistic that the work will be done within time," said Kawale.
She, however, said the project has faced some challenges such as devaluation of Kwacha which resulted in further evaluation of budget and negotiations with contractors.
Head teacher for Namikombe CDSS, George Chipawo hailed government through MACRA for rolling out this project, saying that the 62 computers that will be installed in the laboratory will compel students to pursue ICT courses in tertiary schools.
"Once this facility is completed, students will now have the opportunity to know the computers before going to colleges and this will also motivate them to further specialize their courses into ICT," Chipao said.
He added: "The community members will also benefit from the Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) network that will be available 100 metres around the laboratory.”
One of the Area Development Committee (ADC) members at Namikombe, Markford Mtemula said they are ready to provide tight security around the facility, adding that they would also help community members with civic education for them to own the project.
With financial support from Malawi Government through Universal Service Fund, MACRA is implementing CAS Project in 72 constituencies across the country, with each district getting two laboratories, in order to allow students to have ICT literacy.
Over 500 households affected by heavy rains in Mzuzu
By Augustus Nkhwazi, Dhumisan Khumalo
Mzuzu, April 3, Mana: Preliminary assessment by Mzuzu City Council has revealed that over 500 households were affected by heavy downpour that fell early this week in the city.
In an interview with Malawi News Agency (MANA) on Thursday, Public Relations Officer for Mzuzu City Council, McDonald Gondwe, said the affected areas include; Mchengautuba East, Chibavi West, Chibavi East, Chiwanja and Chiputula wards.
According to Gondwe, most of the affected households experienced run-offs, with one household completely damaged in Chibanja, while another house had its roof partly blown off in Chiputula.
"Majority of those affected need urgent support in areas of food items, beddings and kitchen utensils," said Gondwe.
He added that the council was set to submit the preliminary assessment report to the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) for necessary action.
“Most of the affected households are those living along water ways, which makes them prone to disasters. The Council however reminds those staying in such places to relocate to safer places,” he said.
Last week the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services issued a statement highlighting heavy rains accompanied by thunderstorms mainly over the North due to Equatorial Rain Belt.
Two nabbed in Karonga for illegal petroleum possession, transportation
By George Mponda
Karonga, April 3, Mana: Karonga Police have arrested Kenson Mwafongo and Lusubiro Mwenelupembe, both 30, for allegedly possessing and transporting 500 liters of liquid petroleum without a permit.
This comes barely a week after Malawi Police Service in Karonga arrested Robert Mwangaju for allegedly being found in possession of 420 liters of petroleum without license.
On Tuesday, a similar case prompted Chitipa Resident Magistrate Court to sentence Watwivwa Kayola, 41 to pay a fine of K1.8 Million or, in default, serve a 12-month jail term.
Mwafongo and Mwenelupembe were apprehended on Tuesday at the Rukuru roadblock in the district.
According to Public Relations Officer for Karonga Police Station, Margret Msiska, the two were in a Toyota Probox from Karonga Boma heading towards Songwe Border and they were stopped by officers manning the roadblock.
"A search in the vehicle established that the car was loaded with 25 jerry cans filled with liquid petroleum. When they were asked for documents of the petroleum, Mwafongo and Mwenelupembe failed to produce any to support their possession and transportation of the liquid petroleum, hence they were arrested and the product was seized," said Msiska.
Mwafongo and Mwenelupembe hail from Traditional Authority Kyungu in Karonga District.
