MANAonline
Youths encouraged to make informed voter decisions
By Milcah Mathias
Blantyre, June 19, Mana: Young Women’s Christian Association of Malawi (YWCA) has encouraged the youth in Blantyre to ensure that aspiring candidates for parliamentary and local government positions in the September 16 elections include in their manifestos initiatives to address issues that affect the sector.
This was said on Wednesday during an interface meeting with the youth and aspiring candidates for parliamentary and local government positions at Chigojo Community-Based Childcare Centre (CBCC) in Traditional Authority Machinjiri in Blantyre.
YWCA Project Officer, Vitumbiko Mkinga said the engagement meeting funded by ‘Her Voice Fund’ was promoting active participation of youths in voting processes and also encouraging aspiring candidates to include in their manifestos initiatives that promote youth empowerment.
“We have seen the youth discussing crucial topics with aspiring candidates regarding economic empowerment, education access, health, employment opportunities, technical and vocational skills, which is commendable,” said Mkinga.
Blantyre District Youth Officer, Peter Mizedya said youths in the district experience numerous challenges and that it was pleasing that they had a platform to highlight crucial issues that require political leaders’ attention once they are voted into power.
Mizedya, however, advised the youth to desist from being used by political leaders to perpetrate violence.
“Vote for those that will bring development in the area and not those who will use you to advance their selfish agendas,” he said.
Chairperson for Machinjiri Youth Network, Petros Katopola urged the aspiring candidates to include youth technical and vocational skills initiatives in their manifestos to support the youth in Machinjiri Township.
Some of the aspiring candidates present during the meeting included aspiring Independent MP, Klaus Chikufenji, United Democratic Front (UDF), shadow MP Sanhl Vahhani and aspiring Local Government representative Anthony Kabuwe also on UDF ticket.
Political analysts applaud the council of new MEC Commissioners
By Paul Madise
Lilongwe, June 19, Mana: As the country draws closer to the September 16 polls, Malawi's political landscape continues to grapple with the resurrection of political catastrophes with most citizens expressing concerns about the Malawi Electoral Commission’s (MEC) transparency and accountability.
Recently, President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera in his capacity as conferred by Section75(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of Malawi Section4(1) of the Malawi Electoral Commission Act (Cap.2:03), having received duly considerations recommendations and from the governing Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and major opposition party the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) appointed Richard Chapweteka, Dr. Emmanuel Fabiano and Caroline Mfune as new MEC commissioners effective from June 11, 2025.
The development has pleased some political analysts who have since commended the President Chakwera for the appointments, describing the process as a manifestation of the administration of credible, free and fair general elections.
Speaking in an interview with Malawi News Agency, Chimwemwe Tsitsi, a political analyst observed that the initiative serves as a reminder to Malawians underscoring that MEC comprises commissioners officially appointed by the president that are based on recommendations from major political parties citing MCP and DPP.
Tsitsi emphasised the crucial role the commissioners play in ensuring a credible, fair and transparent election, noting that the development enhances MEC’s resolve to conducts itself in transparency and accountability in the administration of the forthcoming September 16 general elections.
He added that having received the recommendations from MCP and DPP, the commissioners were very unlikely to advance the interests of one party, let alone the ruling party, but handle the election in a manner that is in accordance with the law governing the conduct of elections.
“Much as it is incumbent upon them to exercise independence and impartiality in conducting elections, the fact that the commissioners are drawn from different political parties, in a way shows that every side of the contest (party in government and the opposition) has someone within MEC to act as their monitor and ensure credibility of the elections,” Tsitsi said.
Another political analyst, Gift Sambo, echoed Tsitsi’s sentiments, saying the country`s electoral management body follows a model that accommodates both technocrats and party-backed politicians as commissioners; hence, the appointments do not contravene relevant provisions that regulate its composition.
“I strongly believe that these names have what it takes to enhance the credibility and reputation of our electoral management body as the country approaches the general elections,” Sambo said.
On June 16, Malawi witnessed the auspicious occasion where three new MEC Commissioners took oath of allegiance of office at the Lilongwe High Court.
Ministry to launch the End learning poverty for all in Africa campaign
By Sheminah Nkhoma
Lilongwe, June 19, Mana: Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education will on Friday, June 20, 2025 launch a campaign to boost literacy and numeracy in early primary school.
A statement signed by Secretary for Basic and Secondary Education, Rachel Chimbwete Phiri, indicated that the campaign will involve all stakeholders in pushing for better learning outcomes.
“The ministry has a vision to ensure that learners should read fluently and with meaning as well as solve simple arithmetic problems by Standard 4; hence, this campaign,” the statement read.
Adding: “The campaign emphasizes the importance of providing quality education and promoting literacy and numeracy skills as a foundation for lifelong learning and development among our children.”
Malawi is part of a 2024 African Union Communique where member states pledged to tackle low literacy and numeracy levels in early education, according to the statement.
The launch will take place at Mkwichi Secondary School in Lilongwe under the theme: “Can Read, Can Write, Can Count: Foundation4Life.
Merck Foundation offers over 2,200 medical scholarships across Africa and Asia
By Memory Kutengule Chatonda
Blantyre, June 18, MANA: The Merck Foundation has awarded more than 2,270 scholarships to medical doctors across Africa and Asia in a bid to strengthen healthcare systems by building capacity in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.
The announcement was made on Wednesday during the 7th edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Africa–Asia Summit, currently taking place in Dubai. As the philanthropic wing of Merck KGaA, Germany, the Foundation is collaborating with 52 countries to enhance healthcare systems by offering specialized training to medical professionals.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, underscored the impact of the scholarships in addressing the shortage of specialized healthcare workers in low- and middle-income countries.
“We are glad that most of the doctors who have benefited from our one and two year specialty scholarships are now becoming the first specialists in their countries,” he said.
He added, “These include fields such as oncology, diabetes, sexual and reproductive medicine, gastroenterology, and internal medicine. They are helping transform the healthcare system from within.”
The initiative aims to address what experts have identified as one of the continent’s persistent challenges a severe shortage of specialists, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
World Health Organization (WHO) has consistently reported that Africa bears 24 percent of the global disease burden but has only 3 percent of the world’s health workforce, making such interventions vital.
Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, emphasized the inclusive nature of the scholarship programme, stating that eligibility is based on merit and not the economic status of the country of origin.
“We continue to work with First Ladies to tackle infertility stigma and empower women, while also prioritizing girls’ education to prevent early marriages and gender-based barriers to academic advancement,” she said.
To date, the Foundation has distributed over 1,000 scholarships and educational materials to girls in 17 African countries. This is part of its “Educating Linda” initiative, which seeks to empower young girls to remain in school and fulfil their potential.
First Lady of Malawi, Madame Monica Chakwera, is one of the Merck More Than a Mother Ambassadors and through her involvement, Malawi continues to benefit from various Merck Foundation programmes, including medical training and awareness campaigns on infertility, gender-based violence, and health equity.
The annual MFFLI summit brings together First Ladies, health experts, and policy makers to promote sustainable healthcare and gender equality in Africa and Asia. The 2025 edition focuses on the impact of capacity building, social change, and the importance of investing in the medical workforce.
Merck Foundation, established in 2017, has grown to become one of the leading philanthropic organizations focusing on capacity building in healthcare, especially in oncology, diabetes care, and women’s health. Its partnerships with African governments and ministries of health continue to make significant strides toward achieving universal health coverage and improving patient outcomes.
MEC revises dates for submission of nomination forms
By Mervis Mwale and Lesnart Kenan
Lilongwe, June 18, MANA: The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, has announced that the dates for submission of nomination papers have been revised from June 24 to July 30, 2025, to align with the dissolution of the national assembly on July 23, 2025.
She made the remarks during a press briefing on the update on election preparations held on Wednesday at Sunbird Hotel in Lilongwe.
"Dates for submission of nomination forms for candidates on September 16 have been revised, and the new schedule will require the aspiring candidates to submit their nomination forms from 24 to 30 July 2025. This update replaces the earlier deadlines of June 22 for local government elections and July 5 for parliamentary polls", she added.
She also clarified that on the voting day, election centers will be opened from 6 am to 4 pm, and those standing in line by 4 pm will be allowed to vote, and those who arrive after 4 pm will not be allowed to vote.
She further stated that the campaign period for the September 16 general elections will commence on July 14 to September 14, 2025 (60 days) at 6 am, governed by a strict electoral code of conduct.
Justice Mtalimanja has therefore urged all political parties and candidates to conduct peaceful campaigns, adding that all necessary rules should be observed within the set timeframe.
MEC has also advised the aspiring candidates to request for preliminary check of their nomination papers to avoid disqualification during elections.
The final list for the nominated candidates will be published in the public gazette and national newspapers and broadcast on the radio by August 8, 2025.
She therefore appealed to all Malawians to avoid misinformation and disinformation, especially on social media platforms and that citizens should verify the source and authenticity of the news to maintain peace during the polling process.
Bible Society targets K50million for Chichewa study bible project
By Kenneth Zindondo, Mana
Lilongwe, June 18, Mana: The Bible Society of Malawi (BSM) is set to host a high-profile fundraising event dubbed “Go Ye Tea-Ch” on June 21 at Capital Hotel in Lilongwe, aiming to raise K50 million for the ongoing Chichewa Study Bible project.
The initiative seeks to support critical components of the second phase of the translation effort, including salaries for editors and reviewers, community review meetings, and other operational costs essential for the rollout of the Chichewa Study Bible.
The event, which is expected to draw Christian women from diverse backgrounds, has been designed to not only fundraise but also deepen understanding of the role the Bible plays in socio-spiritual transformation among Malawians.
Speaking in an interview, Media Chair and Executive Committee Member for the Bible Society of Malawi, Jennifer Tseka, emphasized the fundraiser's dual focus on economic and spiritual empowerment.
“This event is about inspiring Christian women to lead in fostering family prosperity – spiritually, economically and in terms of health,” Tseka said.
She added that proceeds will be mobilized through ticket sales and corporate sponsorships, with a portion of funds already pledged by partners in the private sector.
The Bible Society of Malawi, an interconfessional body, has for decades partnered with Christian churches and institutions across the country to promote Bible accessibility in local languages.
Tseka noted that the importance of the Chichewa Study Bible project goes beyond faith practice it is a cultural milestone.
“We are not just translating we are contextualizing the Word for current and future generations in a way that speaks directly to their lived experience,” she said.
Faith-based organizations, particularly in rural Malawi, have long advocated for locally adapted religious texts.
According to the Malawi Council of Churches, nearly 70 percent of the country’s population identify as Christian, making the demand for accessible scripture in native languages particularly strong.
BSM says it hopes to finalize the Chichewa Study Bible by 2026, depending on sustained funding.
The June 21 event will feature a tea ceremony, keynote speeches from prominent women leaders in church and society, and a live auction to further mobilize resources.
Karonga, Chitipa bolster health defenses amid cross-border outbreak risks
By George Mponda, Mana
Karonga, June 18, Mana: Health officials in Karonga and Chitipa districts have intensified their public health preparedness following a targeted training exercise by Amref Health Africa aimed at equipping frontline health workers to better respond to outbreaks of Cholera, Mpox and other infectious diseases.
Held last week, the training brought together key district health staff to enhance disease surveillance, case management and emergency response mechanisms.
The two border districts, located in northern Malawi, have been identified as high-risk areas due to constant cross-border movement with Tanzania and other neighbouring regions.
Director of Health Services for Karonga District Council, David Sibale, underscored the need for vigilance in these frontier areas.
“These are frontline districts and the risk of importing diseases like Cholera and Mpox remains high,” Sibale said. “This training has strengthened our capacity and our health workers are now better positioned to detect, manage, and report suspected cases.”
Sibale also disclosed that Karonga has a contingency plan in place and continues to screen travelers entering through major border points such as Songwe and Kaporo.
He stressed that early detection remains the most effective defence.
“We are already conducting screenings, especially for those with symptoms indicative of infectious diseases. Our teams have been trained to recognize emerging threats early, which helps contain spread before it escalates,” he added.
Amref Health Africa Country Representative, Hester Mkwinda, said the intervention was deliberately focused on Karonga and Chitipa due to their historical vulnerability to public health emergencies.
“Karonga is a known hotspot for Cholera and other communicable diseases. Strengthening the capacity of health workers in such areas is a strategic move to stop potential outbreaks at the source,” Mkwinda said.
He urged stronger collaboration between government ministries, civil society and private stakeholders to develop a more unified disease surveillance and response system.
“We must take a multisectoral approach that includes immigration officers, health personnel, and community leaders. Knowledge and coordination are our best tools in keeping these communities safe,” Mkwinda said.
Data from the Ministry of Health indicates that border districts have accounted for over 30 percent of Cholera cases in the last three years, largely due to unmonitored travel and limited public health infrastructure.
Amref’s training programme is part of a broader regional health security agenda supported by donor partners and international agencies, aimed at reinforcing Africa’s ability to respond to pandemic-level threats before they spread beyond containment zones.
APAM calls for enhanced security for persons with albinism ahead of elections
By Doricah Mkwapatira and Alice Ndunya
Machinga, June 18, mana: The Association of Persons with Albinism in Malawi (APAM) has called for more action to strengthen security for the protection of persons with Albinism in the country while ensuring inclusivity in electoral system as Malawi heads to general elections in September.
APAM President, Young Muhamba, made the call at Michongwe Primary School, Ntaja in Machinga District on Tuesday during commemoration of International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) under the theme; United for Peace and Inclusion: Strengthen Protection of Persons with Albinism Towards Elections.
He said there was need for collective action to safeguard the rights and safety of peesons with albinism in the current election perioed.
“Unfortunately, we've already registered five cases of attempted abduction while some people tamper with graveyards of bodies of persons with albinism. This is a trend that escalates during elections.
“There should be an establishment of a vibrant presidential task force to strengthen laws and regulations that should ensure total protection of persons with albinism,” Muhamba added.
Additionally, he advocated for increased access to sunscreen lotions in hospitals, speedy justice delivery, and putting mechanism that should dispel myths that perpetuate attacks against persons with albinism.
Minister of Defence, Monica Chan’ganamuno assured people with albinism and the nation the government was committed in addressing the concerns raised by APAM.
"The brutal killing of individuals with albinism for ritual purposes is diabolical. I urge the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to collaborate with us in sensitising political leaders to prioritise constructive policies and manifestos that attract votes, rather than resorting to harmful and exploitative practices,” she said.
Chang’anamuno therefore called on political leaders to focus on development-oriented agendas, promoting a culture of respect for human rights and dignity.
“We must create an environment where persons with albinism can live without fear of persecution or violence, and where their rights are safeguarded and respected,” she added.
Traditional leaders and community members were also encouraged to condemn attacks, killing and all forms of violence against persons with albinism due to myths.
Paramount Chief Kawinga noted a significant decline in attacks on persons with albinism in Machinga, attributing the decline to continous advocacy and collaborative community sensitisation on rights of persons with albinism.
“Machinga was once severely affected by brutal killings, but thanks to the tireless work of stakeholders in raising awareness and educating our communities, we've seen a reduction in atacks on persons with albinism.
“Enhanced security measures have also played a crucial role in protecting persons with albinism, allowing them to live safely in their homes,” the Paramount Chief added.
Machinga recorded 170 cases that included killings and abductions exhuming of graveyards of remains of person with albinism since
Among the cases was of that of a Two years old boy with albinism, Ibra Pilo of Traditional Authority Mchinguza, who was abducted and was leter found beheaded while another killing of Nine years old Harry Mokoshoni was recorded at Traditiobnal Authority Chikweo.
Tha nation was also shocked with another killing of a person with albinism, a 22 years old Macdonald Masambuka whose death saw 12 people answering in court charges ranging from murder to extracting human tissues.
Catholic preiest, Thomas Muhosha, Police Officer, Chikondi Chileka, Clinician, Lumbani Kamanga and MacDonald’s borther, Cassim Masambuka were mentioned in the kiiling and were prosecuted on various charges and jaileed.
CIJ trains Parliamentary staff
By Yankho Kandio
Salima, June 18, Mana: The Chandler Institute of Justice (CIJ) in collaboration with the Parliament of Malawi on Tuesday opened a tailored legislative drafting training workshop in Salima, aimed at strengthening the capacity of parliamentary staff ahead of the new Parliament in September.
The training is designed to equip parliamentary officers with the technical expertise needed to provide effective support to Members of Parliament as they carry out their legislative responsibilities.
Clerk of Parliament, Fiona Kalemba, underlined the workshop’s role in preparing for the new cohort of Members of Parliament following the September general elections.
“Behind every successful Member of Parliament is a team of dedicated and competent staff. This training will enable us to support our new members more efficiently and effectively as they carry forward their legislative responsibilities,” Kalemba said.
CIJ’s legal expert, Liness Chikankheni, stressed the significance of robust legislation in fostering a just, accountable and progressive society. Adding that strengthening legal institutions and parliamentary capacity is a key step toward delivering on democratic promises.
“It is both an honour and a pleasure to collaborate with Parliament to enable its officers to grow their skills and knowledge in legislative drafting. This training is a step forward in our collective mission to serve the public with integrity, innovation and impact,” Chikankheni said.
Head of Legal services for Parliament, Tilly Likomwe, explained that the training aims to bring parliamentary drafters up to speed in delivering high-caliber legislation.
“Current capacity is good but there’s room for improvement, and we’re eager to learn from the expertise of our partners at CIJ to aid us in that process,” Likomwe said.
The workshop forms a crucial step toward strengthening the legislative framework and ensuring that the new Parliament is well-equipped to perform its constitutional responsibilities.
Centenary Bank, Paychangu partnership to boost business transactions
By Lesnat Kenan
Lilongwe, June 18, Mana: Centenary Bank Managing Director, Godfrey Byekwaso, has said the strategic partnership agreement with Paychangu is one way of boosting business transactions through a convenient payment solution in Malawi.
Byekwaso made the remarks during the unveiling of the partnership on Tuesday in Lilongwe.
He said the partnership agreement will improve and expand Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) by helping merchants to connect with their customers.
"Customers, including merchants and organizations will benefit from faster, more secure payments, simplified payment processing, and the ability to receive funds instantly, thereby helping them to manage cash flow better and serve customers more efficiently", he explained.
He further added that the partnership will also help customers to pay businesses online using instant bank transfers from any bank.
Concurring with Byekwaso, Paychangu Chief Executive Officer, Morgan Tembo, said financial innovation is a driver for developing economies through digital payments.
He said the Paychangu platform will help business operators, including SME's to make payments directly from Centenary Bank to their mobile.
Paychangu is linked with other mobile payment platforms such as Airtel Money and Mpamba Wallet and is available on all centre mobiles by dialling *632# and selecting other payments.
