MANAonline
Youths urged to take up amateur boxing for wellness
By Chisomo Kambandanga
Nkhata Bay, February 19, Mana: Renowned boxer Perpetual Mkandawire has encouraged youths in Nkhata Bay to engage in amateur boxing, citing its benefits for their overall well-being.
Mkandawire made the remarks on Tuesday at Saint Maria Goretti in the district at the end of a two-day training organized by the Malawi National Council for Sports.
"Boxing is not just about fighting; it's about discipline, physical fitness, and mental toughness," he said.
"I urge young people to take up this sport and reap its benefits", he added.
Public Relations Officer for the Malawi National Council of Sports, Edgar Ntulumbwa, explained that the training aimed to empower local coaches to identify and develop talent.
"We want to promote amateur boxing in Nkhata Bay and produce talented boxers who can represent Malawi internationally," Ntulumbwa said.
District Education Sports Officer for Nkhata Bay, Shadreck Chiundiza, praised the Council for the initiative, saying it would shape the future of amateur boxing in the district.
The two-day training drew 25 participants, including coaches, judges, umpires, and trainers.
Man arrested for attempted murder
By Chisomo Masaiti Chiusiwa
Ntchisi, February 19, Mana: Police in Ntchisi have arrested 33-year-old Pitilizani Chaomba for allegedly attacking and stabbing Madalitso Martin, a motorcycle operator, in attempt to rob him of his motorcycle.
Ntchisi police Spokesperson Sub-Inspector Salome Zgambo confirmed the development saying the arrest occurred on February 18 at Chantika village, Traditional Authority Chilooko where the suspect was hiding.
She said: “On the fateful day which was on February 8, the suspect hired Madalitso Martin aged 18, from Ntchisi boma to take him to Chisesa village.
“Upon reaching Kaombe Forest in the area of Traditional Authority Chilooko, Pitilizani attacked and stabbed the motorcycle operator in the stomach and right arm in attempt to rob him of his motorcycle.”
She said the victim struggled and managed to take off the knife and used it to stab the suspect on the head.
Due to this, the suspect got overpowered and fled.
The victim was later found by passersby who took him to Ntchisi District Hospital where he was referred to Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH).
The suspect will soon appear in court to answer charges leveled against him.
Labour Minister committed to improve working conditions
By Thom Ali
Lilongwe February 19, Mana: Minister of Labour Vitumbiko Mumba has suspended the operations at Sheng Packaging and Plastimax manufacturing companies in Lilongwe, due to labour laws violations.
Speaking during an inspection tour on Tuesday, the Minister said he stopped the operations of the two companies, due to a number of observations including, law wages, hazardous working environments, unprotective gears, lack of cleanliness and hygiene on both premises, lack of adequate food and provision of unqualified officers.
"Following the inspection of Hong Sheng and Plastimax premises, we have ceased all operations until a full compliance is conducted from the Ministry of Labour officials", Mumba emphasized.
He also indicated that the companies have been ordered with a provision notice of 7 Days to address the challenges observed.
The Minister has since urged all employees at the companies to form a Workers Union, which will enable them to address the challenges they face during the course of their duties.
Mumba further commended NT Plastics, which has resumed its operations after it was shut down for not complying with various labour laws.
He said NT Plastics has addressed some of the violations, urging other foreign investors to take the similar path.
However, the minister observed that some challenges at NT Plastics have not yet been addressed, and ordered a 14 days period for the company to address the remaining challenges, citing lighting, warehouse ventilation system and working permits for foreign investors in the country.
President of Malawi Congress of Trade Union Charles Kunchenga commended the Minister for the inspections being conducted across the country, noting that this will enable labour laws and regulations to be followed by foreign investors.
NLGFC Board commends Mchinji Council’s projects implementation
By Vincent Khonje
Mchinji, February 18, Mana: The National Local Government Finance Committee (NLGFC) Board of Directors has commended Mchinji District Council for its prudent use of funds allocated for development projects.
The board visited Mchinji on Tuesday to assess progress of various development initiatives being implemented in the district.
Speaking during the visit, NLGFC Board Vice Chairperson, Lilian Khofi, expressed satisfaction with how the Council is utilizing the funds.
“It is encouraging to see that finances sent to local assemblies are being used efficiently and effectively. I commend the District Commissioner and her team for their commendable work,” Khofi said.
The board members held discussions on the implementation of the 2024/2025 projects budget under the District Development Fund (DDF), Constituency Development Fund (CDF), Governance to Enable Service Delivery (GESD) and Social Protection for Resilience Livelihood (SSRLP) and later visited some of the projects.
“We visited a gravity-fed water scheme under GESD, and we have seen the good work that they are doing. I am happy that people are going to benefit from this.
“We also visited a police unit that has been constructed under the CDF. We always hear about CDF funds not working, but I am excited that we have seen this beautiful structure that is going to help the people,” she said.
Mchinji District Commissioner, Lucia Chidalengwa, expressed gratitude for the visit, stating that the board’s insights would help improve project implementation.
“We appreciate the visit and the feedback provided. We will take these suggestions into account as we continue implementing our projects,” Chidalengwa said.
The board members appreciated the rehabilitation of the district council offices that were done under DDF and also visited the Nyoka-Zulu-Mduwa gravity-fed water scheme under GESD, and Tembwe Police Unit under CDF.
First Lady named Global Girls Foundation ambassador
By Yewo Munthali
Lilongwe, February 18, Mana: First Lady, Monica Chakwera, has been appointed as the ambassador for Plan International's Global Girls Foundation (GGF).
The announcement was made Sunday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia during a dedicated event at the 2025 African Union Heads of State and Government Summit.
As GGF Ambassador, Madame Chakwera will play a crucial role in advocating for girls' rights, education and leadership across Africa.
She aims to break down systemic barriers that prevent girls from reaching their full potential.
She, therefore, expressed her honour in taking this role.
"I am deeply honoured to take on the role as Ambassador for the Global Girls Foundation. Across Africa and around the world, girls continue to face significant challenges in accessing education, economic opportunities and protection from harmful practices.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that every girl has an opportunity to thrive, lead and shape her own future,” she said.
Lea Bachmann, GGF Managing Director, welcomed Chakwera's appointment.
"Girls have the right to be heard and to lead change in their communities, and with the help of Her Excellency's leadership, girls are ensured to be at the centre of decision-making processes that shape their future,” she said.
Chakwera's commitment to advancing gender equality through education and leadership development for girls in Malawi and beyond is well established.
She has championed initiatives to enhance access to quality education, healthcare and economic empowerment opportunities for young women as an active member of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD).
China committed to supporting Malawi’s development agenda
By Sheminah Nkhoma
Lilongwe, February 18, Mana: China has recommitted itself to continue supporting Malawi’s development goals particularly infrastructure, tourism and trade.
Chinese Ambassador to Malawi, Lu Xu, told the press after president her letters of credence to President Dr Lazarus Chakwera at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe on Tuesday.
Xu said she will serve as a bridge between Malawi and China to foster mutual understanding towards industrialization and modernization.
“We have discussed a lot of developmental agendas with President Chakwera; for instance, building of economic relationships. I will encourage my people to come to Malawi and invest in different sectors,” she said.
Xu articulated the need for building political relations between the two countries so that they should have a solid foundation for each other.
She, therefore, said she will promote cultural exchange between China and Malawi so that they learn from each other .
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nancy Tembo, said Malawi and China have strong diplomatic relations as China has been supporting the country in different sectors such as infrastructure, education and trade.
“We both have the same priority of industrialization and modernization. We hope that we are going to work together in achieving this goal,” Said Tembo.
The new ambassador replaces Long Zhou who has been in the country since 2023.
Malawi and China diplomatic relation date 2008. Through this relationship, Malawi has benefited from China in infrastructure development, education and agriculture.
Dowa police recover stolen cattle
By Sylvester Kumwenda
Dowa, February 18, Mana: Police in Dowa on Sunday night recovered two slaughtered bulls suspected to have been stolen by unknown criminals in the district who are currently at large.
Dowa Police Public Relations Officer, Alice Sitima, said on February 16, 2025, officers from Chibvala Police Unit mounted a roadblock along Kasungu - Lilongwe Road.
"During their operation, they intercepted a Toyota Nadia registration number MZ 9928, carrying four people. As the officers approached, the four exited the vehicle and fled into the bush in various directions effectively abandoning it.
"Upon searching the vehicle, the officers discovered two slaughtered bulls," said Sitima.
She said the owner of the stolen cattle, Moffat Wilesi, 54, from Chimungu Village, Traditional Authority Dzoole, positively identified the bulls after viewing photographs of the slaughtered animals.
The vehicle has currently been seized by the police.
According to Sitima investigations are currently underway to apprehend the suspects.
CCVEAs urged to uphold integrity
By Tamala Kamanga
Dowa, February 18, Mana: Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has urged Constituency Civic Education Assistants (CCVEAs) to exercise integrity during voter transfer exercise in preparation for the September 16 general elections.
Speaking during the training of CCVEAs for central region constituencies at Mponela in Dowa on Monday MEC National Civic and Education Manager, King Norman Rudi, said the Commission expects the training to foster highest standards of professionalism and integrity ahead of the elections.
"The CCVEAs are MEC front desk. As such, they need to portray proper image and values MEC advocates for which, among other things, include impartiality, integrity and trust.
"Above all, CCVEAs are critical in dissemination of messages. So, we thought it necessary that we train all CCVEAS from the central region to have proper information concerning voter transfer," said Rudi.
One of the CCVEAS from Dowa West Constituency, Andrew Mdzumira, said they are ready to play their crucial role of civic educating people in their constituencies.
"We are ready and we will do our best for people in our constituencies to know more about the forthcoming elections,” said Mdzumira.
Phase one of voter transfer is expected to start on February 25.
Dausi hails President Chakwera's SONA
By Gift Chiponde
Lilongwe, February 17, MANA: Member of Parliament for Mwanza Central, Nicolas Dausi, has applauded President Chakwera’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), describing it as a true reflection of his administration’s achievements.
Dausi made these remarks today at the Parliament building in Lilongwe, during his response to President Chakwera’s address at the 51st Parliamentary Session.
He emphasized that it is widely recognized that President Chakwera's administration has made significant progress in Mwanza Central and the district at large.
“Madam Speaker, it is well known that President Chakwera has demonstrated strong leadership and delivered for the people,” said Dausi. "The people of Mwanza Central are very happy with what the President has done for the district."
Dausi specifically commended the President for the construction of the Mwanza Stadium, a development that will significantly improve the district’s outlook stating that once completed, it will provide a modern facility for youth engagement.
"Currently, the stadium is 90% complete, and the contractor has assured me that it will be finished by March 2025, with the opening scheduled for April 2025," he said.
Additionally, Dausi highlighted President Chakwera's commitment to improving healthcare in Mwanza. This includes the upgrade of Thambani Health Centre to a Rural Hospital, the completion of Galafa and Kalanga Health Posts, and the establishment of three new health centers in the district.
He also cautioned other Members of Parliament against politicizing the SONA, urging focus on the tangible achievements of President Chakwera.
"I know some will attempt to politicize my speech, but I stand by the fact that President Chakwera has delivered for the people of Mwanza," Dausi said.
In the education sector, Dausi praised the President for the establishment of two secondary schools—Kawedza and Phete—that will contribute significantly to improving education in the district.
While acknowledging the government's efforts in development, Dausi also highlighted the impact of the recent dry spell, which has left many areas, including Mwanza, food insecure.
He has appealed to government to continue supporting the people of Mwanza, particularly in areas hardest hit by hunger.
In his closing remarks after the debate, Leader of the House Richard Chimwendo Banda who is also Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture commended Dausi for his insights and contribution, assuring the house that President Chakwera will ensure the continued transformation of the country through the Constituency Development Fund and the Chakwera agenda of transforming the country.
Government launches public engagement on national development updates
By Patience Longwe
Lilongwe, February 17, Mana: The Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) has announced that, following President Lazarus Chakwera’s fifth and final State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered in Parliament on February 14, 2025, Cabinet Ministers will engage the public to provide updates on completed and ongoing development projects in every district.
In a press statement, Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Collen Zamba, stated that Ministers will address concerns raised by stakeholders in the media regarding the status of certain projects, both inside and outside Parliament.
“The government reaffirms its commitment to fulfilling its promises and ensuring that the public remains well-informed about all programs, projects, and initiatives aimed at advancing national development,” reads the statement.
