MANAonline
8 Arrested in Lilongwe for Police unit vandalism and theft
By Japonicah Jabu
Lilongwe, June 24 – Eight men have been arrested in Lilongwe on suspicion of vandalizing the Chisiyo Police Unit, torching two vehicles, and stealing police equipment.
The arrests follow an incident on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, where a group of individuals allegedly attacked the police unit.
According to the Lilongwe Police Unit Public Relations Office, Hastings Chigalu, the arrests were made during an intelligence-driven police raid on Thursday night at Zumkutu-Bypass. During the raid, law enforcement officers also recovered two wooden doors stolen from the vandalized police unit.
The suspects have been identified as Wilson Maloya (21), Ishmael Mitengo (21), Zuzo Pedson (24), Blessings Dyson (21), Philmom Maupo (21), Aaron Wellington (32), Willard Jeremani (21), and Thokozani Makolija (21).
“The suspects are believed to be among a group of individuals who vandalized the police unit after officers declined to hand over a murder suspect whom the villagers wanted to burn alive,” stated Chigalu.
The irate villagers then reportedly set ablaze two vehicles, vandalized the office structure—including water and electricity installations—and stole a desktop computer, furniture, and other items.
Meanwhile, according to Chaigalu, the Police have intensified investigations to apprehend more culprits and recover the stolen items.
The arrested suspects are expected to appear in court next week to face charges of arson, malicious damage, theft, and unlawful wounding.
Malawi secures full membership in African Telecoms Union
By Khumbo Kmaliza
Lilongwe, June 24, Mana: Malawi has reaffirmed its commitment to regional ICT development by officially submitting its Instrument of Ratification to the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) Constitution and Convention, transitioning from observer to full member status.
The submission was made on June 12, 2025, in Nairobi, Kenya, by Director General of the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) Daud Suleman, and received by Alice Koech on behalf of the ATU.
The move elevates Malawi’s participation in continental ICT policymaking and governance.
Head of International Affairs and Corporate Communication at MACRA Limbani Nsapatosaid, “This ratification reflects Malawi’s recognition of the critical role telecommunications play in economic and social development,”
Limbani said the development marks a key step in strengthening the country’s contribution to regional integration and capacity building in the ICT sector.
Nsapato added that the decision allows Malawi not only to contribute ideas but also to influence decisions at the continental level.
He said: “This initiative elevates Malawi from observer to active decision maker giving it a voice in shaping Africa’s ICT future.”
According to MACRA, the ratification grants Malawi full participation rights in all ATU programs, including conferences, policy-making forums, and elections to the Administrative Council, the Union’s principal governing body.
Speaking after the submission, Suleman said Malawi looks forward to leveraging its new status to champion inclusive, secure, and innovative digital frameworks.
Suleman said, “The Government of Malawi, through MACRA, is committed to working with other ATU member states to advance telecommunications as a driver of Africa’s long-term development goals.”
The African Telecommunications Union is a specialised agency of the African Union (AU) mandated to promote the development and harmonisation of information and communication technologies (ICTs) across the continent.
Malawi’s ratification also aligns with the country’s broader digital transformation agenda under Malawi Vision 2063, which prioritises ICT as a catalyst for economic diversification, innovation, and inclusive growth.
Five nabbed over child lock thefts in Mzuzu
By Lesnat Kenan
Lilongwe, June 24, Mana: Police in Mzuzu have arrested five suspects in connection with a spate of child lock theft cases that have targeted unsuspecting passengers in the city.
The suspects Moffat Gondwe (35), Harry Mchereka (30), Lloyd Mponda (26), Joseph Phiri (27), and Jafali Maundala (28) were arrested on June 21, 2025, in different locations within Mzuzu following an intelligence-led operation.
Deputy PRO for Mzuzu Police Station said, “These criminals would drive vehicles and offer people free rides to their destinations, pretending to know them, and at times posing as taxi drivers.”
Mfune said Police received multiple complaints and launched a targeted operation that led to the arrests.
She said, “The first two suspects were operating a yellow Daihatsu Esse (RU 7722), while the others used a white Honda Fit (BJ 10084). Both vehicles have since been seized.”
Mfune added that the suspects would trap passengers using the child lock mechanism, making it difficult for victims to exit the vehicles, before robbing them of mobile phones, cash, and other valuables.
She added that the suspects have already confessed to some of the crimes and that several victims have positively identified them which marks a significant breakthrough in tackling organised thefts in the city.
The suspects are expected to appear in court soon to answer charges of theft, which is contrary to Section 278 of the Penal Code.
Mzuzu Police have since advised the public to remain cautious when boarding unregistered or unfamiliar vehicles, even when offered a free ride.
The five suspects come from different districts across the country. Gondwe and Mchereka are from Mzimba District, under Traditional Authorities (T/As) Chindi and Mabulabo, respectively. Mponda hails from T/A Malemia in Zomba, while Phiri comes from T/A Njolomole in Ntcheu, and Maundala from T/A Kawinga in Machinga.
Malawi eyes investment breakthrough at 2025 U.S. Africa business summit
By: Innocent Manda
Lilongwe, 24 June, Mana: Malawi will leverage the 2025 U.S.–Africa Business Summit in Luanda, Angola, to promote investment and trade opportunities that support its long-term development blueprint, Malawi Vision 2063.
The summit, set for June 23 to 27, will attract over 2,000 high-level participants from across Africa and the United States, focusing on deepening economic partnerships under the theme “Pathways to Prosperity.”
According to a communication from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, spokesperson Patrick Botha said Malawi will showcase 23 projects across agriculture, mining, energy, tourism, and transport in line with MW2063’s pillars.
“Our goal is to attract investors who can help transform Malawi into an inclusively wealthy and self-reliant nation by 2063, this summit supports our push for industrialization and commercialization,” leads part of the statement.
Leading the delegation is Trade and Industry Minister, Engineer Vitumbiko A.Z. Mumba, who will also speak in three key panel sessions on regional trade, health sector growth, and trade-enabling policy frameworks under AfCFTA.
Malawi will also engage in bilateral talks with U.S. officials, including Ambassador Troy Fitrell and the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office, to discuss AGOA renewal, commercial diplomacy, and critical mineral investments.
“These meetings are a timely step toward positioning Malawi as a hub for value-added exports and strategic supply chains, especially for minerals like graphite and titanium,” Botha added.
Efforts to secure space for a national pavilion are underway to showcase “Made in Malawi” products, reinforcing the country’s export brand and promoting local enterprise growth in support of the private sector.
As the summit concludes on June 27, Malawi aims to return with investment pledges, policy cooperation, and stronger ties that drive inclusive economic transformation, in line with the ambitions of Vision 2063.
Youth STI surge sparks concern in Mzimba North
By Rose Cross Mahorya
Mzuzu, June 24, Mana: Authorities in Mzimba North have raised concern over the rising number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and early pregnancies among young people, attributing the trend to limited access to youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services.
According to officials, out of the 27 health centres in the district, only four are equipped with operational Youth Corners, which are dedicated spaces for young people to access SRH services in a safe and confidential environment.
This inadequacy has been cited as a contributing factor to the alarming rates of infections and unplanned pregnancies among adolescents.
District Youth Officer (DYO) for Mzimba North, Lughano Msokwa, has appealed to stakeholders to step up efforts in funding and supporting behaviour change programmes aimed at young people.
Msokwa said, “Our young people are exposed to so much information and freedom without proper guidance. Unfortunately, most parents today are ill-equipped to handle the behavioural challenges that come with raising adolescents.”
He said the lack of investment in behaviour change and youth-targeted health services is now showing through these concerning numbers.
Statistics from Zolozolo and Nkhorongo health facilities within the city indicate that over 1,000 STI cases and 19 early pregnancies are recorded each month, figures health officials describe as alarming and unsustainable.
Msokwa stressed that addressing youth health challenges requires a multisectoral approach. “We need schools, churches, health workers, parents, and policymakers to work together. These numbers are not just statistics—they reflect real lives and real futures at risk.”
District Medical Officer for Mzimba North, Dr. Shadreck Ngwira, echoed the concern, saying the district is struggling to meet the needs of the youth population due to under resourced health facilities.
Ngwira said, “We have only four functional Youth Corners across the entire district which is just 15 percent of our health centres. This is far from enough, and it’s clearly affecting young people’s access to vital SRH information and services.”
He added that plans are underway to partner with development organizations and community stakeholders to improve the availability of youth-friendly services, especially in high-risk areas.
Youth Corners are designed to provide a safe space for adolescents to access contraceptives, HIV testing, counselling, and STI treatment without fear of stigma. However, many have either shut down or operate irregularly due to funding challenges, lack of trained personnel, or poor prioritisation.
Experts argue that the current rise in youth STIs and early pregnancies is reflective of a broader national issue.
According to the National Youth Policy, over 60% of Malawi’s population is under the age of 25, yet youth health programming remains underfunded.
Usi leaves Malawi for Mozambique
By Pempho Kantayeni
Lilongwe, June 24, Mana: Vice President Dr Michael Usi has departed Malawi for Mozambique where will expected to attend the 50th Independence Anniversary Celebrations of the Republic of Mozambique.
The celebrations will be held in Maputo on Wednesday June 25.
The visit follows an invitation from Daniel Francisco Chapo President of the Republic of Mozambique.
The celebrations presents an important opportunity to further enhance the warm and longstanding bilateral relations between the two nations.
Dr Usi was seen off by Minister of Finance, Simplex Chithyola Banda, Secretary for the Office of the Vice President, Dr Luckie Sikwese and other government officials.
President Chakwera delegated Usi to represent him at the celebrations.
Usi is expected to return on Thursday afternoon through Kamuzu International Airport.
University staff to benefit from NBS Bank-UNIMA partnership
By Mtisunge Gwedeza
Blantyre, 23 June, Mana: University of Malawi Vice- Chancellor, Professor Samson Sajidu recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between University of Malawi (UNIMA) and New Building Society (NBS) Bank to facilitate mobile banking services to staffs at workplace through a number of products.
UNIMA Public Relations Officer, Alfred Banda said that the partnership will benefit staff members by improving their welfare through workplace banking services provided by the NBS bank.
“UNIMA staff members will benefit from NBS Bank through various products such as employer-supported unsecured loans, bank accounts and service offerings, overdraft facilities, mortgages, finance literacy among others.
“This will benefit staff members by improving their welfare as UNIMA employees will be able to access loans from NBS Bank at reduced interest rates,” he added.
Chief Retail Banking Officer at NBS Bank, Victoria Chanza said was excited with the new partnership, adding that this builds on what the two had already established in the past.
“This was a great day for both institutions; we have signed the MoU mainly to enhance workplace banking. NBS Bank has a strong relation with UNIMA such that the bank has an on-campus branch.
“We also provide fee collection services for both graduate and postgraduate students. Today is simply another milestone in this ongoing partnership,” Chanza added.
To ensure effectiveness of the partnership, the two entities said there will be regular assessment where the memorandum will be evaluated on a regular basis to determine whether the partnership is achieving its intended goals.
Organization supports mental wellness
By Mtisunge Gwedeza
Blantyre, June 23, Mana: As part of men’s mental health month, Rugare Mental Health Organization will be holding an online session titled: From a boy to a man, on June 30, 2025 via zoom.
The conversation will explore how Malawian culture shapes men’s mental health experiences looking at traditional expectations placed on boys and emotional silence often expected by men.
The organization’s executive director, Nikiwe Mtema, in an interview said that through all its initiatives, Rugare was committed to building a culture where mental health should be subject for discussion.
“This event will be the first in the two-part series focused on men’s mental health, and while the spotlight is on men, everyone is welcome to attend and be part of the movement.
“Beyond online sessions, Rugare offers mental health clubs in schools which creates spaces for students to learn about mental well-being and we run a podcast called; Mind matters with Rugare. This is where we unpack mental health topics through conversations with professionals and other people,” she added.
Q Malewezi, a Malawian artist and cultural specialist who brings deep personal insight and a powerful voice to issues around masculinity and mental wellness said he plans to bring conversation that helps break the silence around men’s mental health during the session.
“I plan to show up as myself, as someone who has been through it, who is still figuring things out and I will share stories, listen deeply and try to create space for honesty. My hope is that by being open about my own struggles and questions, I can encourage others to do the same.
“I want us to see each other beyond the masks we often wear, I want to encourage others that it’s okay to struggle and its more than okay to ask for help. I want to remind people that strength isn’t about bottling things but it’s about having the courage to speak,” he added.
The Rugare Mental Health Organization is a youth led non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and support in the belief that mental health is a vital part of overall well-being and must be treated as such in homes, schools and communities.
Rugare said those interested in participating should register through: https://forms.gle/Pm22HPynHeskTyCe7.
MEC calls for tight security as the country prepares for general elections
By Santos Zefania
Lilongwe, June 23, Mana: The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) on Monday convened a joint meeting with the country’s key security agencies, including the Malawi Police Service, Malawi Defence Force, Malawi Prisons Service, and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services at Nkopola in Mangochi to strategize on ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process.
According to the Chairperson for Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, the gathering underscored the critical role that security institutions play in safeguarding the democratic process as the country prepares for the upcoming general election.
In her presentation during the joint meeting, she commended representatives from the Malawi Defence Force, Malawi Police Service, Malawi Prisons Service, and the Department of Immigration, noting that their presence reaffirms their commitment to the electoral cycle and reflects the country’s continued progress in democratic governance.
"Every security agent carries a constitutional mandate, a legal and moral responsibility to serve, protect, and defend the people of Malawi.
"We must build joint operational frameworks, shared communication protocols, and unified command structures where necessary," Mtalimanja said.
The Chairperson also highlighted the vision that the 2025 General Election must be peaceful, orderly, inclusive, and secure,
"For this election to be remembered not just as a successful election, but as a moment when our institutions worked together to deliver peace, stability, and national pride, we must join hands,” she added.
Meanwhile, renowned political analyst Czar Kondowe has commended the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) for convening the joint meeting, emphasizing the importance of involving security agencies in monitoring the electoral process. He urged all stakeholders to remain vigilant and carry out their duties diligently.
“These elections require strong security measures, not only during the transfer of votes from polling stations to the tally centre, but also in protecting officials responsible for managing the elections, as these are critical areas,” said Kondowe.
Silver Strikers book a spot in Airtel Top 8 finals
By Chrispin Kapindira
Mzuzu, June 23, Mana: Silver Strikers defeated Civo Service United 2-1 on Sunday at the Bingu National Stadium to book their place in the Airtel Top 8 finals.
Civo Service United started strong, with Blessings Malinda and Frank Chizuze attacking heavily in Silver Strikers defense, but still did not manage to find the net.
While Silver Strikers had their first real chance of the game in the 37th minute when Civo’s goalkeeper, Juma, left his line, but the defense intervened to clear the ball, keeping the score goalless at halftime.
Silver Strikers returned from the break with renewed energy and began to dominate possession. Their pressure paid off in the 64th minute when Nickson Mwase headed in a corner from Chinsisi Maonga to give them a 1-0 lead. Civo Service United responded well and equalized in the 86th minute through a header by Peter Ng’ambi from a Damiano Kunje corner.
However, Silver Strikers remained in control of the game and continued to attack. Emmanuel Allan headed in a decisive cross from Dan Sandukira just two minutes into stoppage time, securing a 2-1 victory for the bankers.
The win books Silver Strikers a spot in the Airtel Top 8 final on 12 July against Nyasa Big Bullets who also won 2-1 on Saturday against Karonga United. This will mark the third final clash between the two but Bullets have managed to win all the finals against Silver Strikers.
This also marks the second consecutive time these two have met in the Airtel Top 8 final, but last time bullets won 1-0 with the only goal coming from Enerst Petro.
