MANAonline
Tourism advocate pushes for investment
By Lisa Lamya
Blantyre, September 2, Mana: One of the country’s tourism advocates Colby Mughogho said Malawi should invest more in road infrastructure to make tourist destinations more convenient and accessible to make the industry a reliable and all-time forex earner.
Mughogho made the sentiments in an interview with Malawi News Agency on Monday as the country observes the tourism month of September.
“Malawi has the potential to generate more forex from the tourism industry but we need to invest in infrastructure development among other key issues, for instance, tourists endure a 15-hour drive from Lilongwe to Nyika National Park because of poor roads. I believe if we had a good airport in the North it would ease this burden,” Mughogho said.
Mughogho who has also represented Malawi at several international tourism expos noted that digital marketing has significantly expanded in Malawi over the years and that Malawi is leveraging it effectively to attract tourists
“We have uncovered hidden gems, and when shared online, both local and international tourists show interest in visiting. However, challenges persist such as, poor road conditions and subpar standards at lodges in some areas,” he added.
He shared plans to promote several lesser-known destinations and emerging destinations in the tourism month and according to Mughogho these destinations hold great potential and can lure more tourists.
“There are various destinations that we will promote this year for instance Misuku Hills in Chitipa, the Usisya to Livingstonia hiking trail, and Vwaza Game Reserve which offers Lake Kazuni where one can enjoy a boat ride while spotting some of the big five, such as elephants,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Tourism through its spokesperson, Joseph Nkosi said this year’s tourism month offers yet another opportunity to sell Malawi’s attraction sites.
“September is a month of tourism in Malawi and so we will capitalise all opportunities to ensure we generate revenue but also encourage Malawians to patronise attraction sites not just the well-known ones but also the least known,” said Nkosi.
In his State of Nation Address in February this year, President, Lazarus Chakwera said his administration was on course to promote the tourism sector by increasing the number of airlines traveling into Malawi and working on bilateral Air Service Agreements with countries like Mozambique, Uganda, and Kuwait among others.
Nzeka Arts host talent show
By Alex Kachingwe
Blantyre, September 2, Mana: Youths from various townships in Blantyre caught their leisure time at Chichiri Museum on Sunday, where Nzeka Arts organized a talent show dubbed, ‘Luso Langa Talent Exhibition’.
The talent show which was scheduled for September 1, 2024 at Chichiri Museum was aimed at promoting various art disciplines like music, poetry, drama, storytelling and dances (urban and traditional) to embrace Malawian culture.
The show saw performances from various artists representing different art disciplines and reached a climax following a magnificent Beni dance performed by Chichiri Heritage Cultural Troop which received great applause from the audience.
Speaking after a colorful performance, Bernard Kapanda, Chairperson for Chichiri Heritage Cultural Troop told Malawi News Agency (Mana) that the talent show was very important as it provided a platform for the youths to showcase their talent to the audience.
He said these kinds of events bring people from different cultural backgrounds together and allows them to learn from each other, an experience which has the possibility to promote arts and culture in the country.
Director for Nzeka Arts, Harris Kamwendo expressed satisfaction with how people and youths around Blantyre city welcomed and showed up to the event, saying it was a message that people want to see the world of art and culture developing in the country by unearthing and exposing new talents.
“As Nzeka Arts we conducted a session with the youths before the event, sensitizing them to the essence of incorporating culture in their talents and the importance of producing quality artistic work out of their talents,” he said.
Kamwendo promised that Nzeka Arts will continue organizing more talent shows in the future as one way of creating platforms for people especially the youth to showcase their talents, and he added that these talent shows are also utilized to address various social issues affecting the youths like suicide, anxiety and substance abuse.
Ireen Navitcha, Miss Culture Malawi 2023, guest of honor at the event, hailed Nzeka Arts for organizing the talent show, saying the event created a platform for the youth to showcase their talents.
“Arts has been struggling to develop in the country as it lacks sponsorship. Through these functions we can attract sponsors who play a vital role in promoting artistic work among the youths,” she said.
Navitcha emphasized that having well blended arts and culture would also add more value to national development as it helps to promote the tourism industry in Malawi.
Mchima Estate donates cleaning materials
By Yamikani Yapuwa
Thyolo, September 2, Mana:
Mchima Estate has donated cleaning materials worth over K 1.3 million to Thyolo District Council in a significant effort to promote hygiene and maintain a clean environment.
The donation, which includes wheelbarrows, rakes, and shovels, is intended to support market-cleaning efforts and enhance public health in the district.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Human Resources Manager for Mchima Estate, Darlington Kawawa said the donation was in response to a request from the District Commissioner (DC) for cleaning materials to improve hygiene standards in the area.
“We are responding to a request from the DC to supply cleaning materials. We thought it wise to respond because cleaning our area is essential. Estates are part and parcel of Thyolo District Council, and their problems are also ours,” he said.
Kawawa added that there is a big connection between the estates and the local community, noting that many people working on the estates rely on the market for their daily needs.
“If Cholera erupts in the market, the estate will also be affected hugely. Therefore, we are holding hands with the council to promote hygiene and ensure a clean environment,” he added.
The Manager called on other estates in Thyolo to join the effort in supporting the council, pointing out that Mchima Estate’s contribution represents only 10 percent of the total request made by the Council.
“For us to have a clean Thyolo Boma, it will depend on all estates responding. We have only contributed 10 percent of the request, which means 90 percent is remaining,” he appealed.
DC for Thyolo, Hudson Kuphanga expressed his gratitude for the support from Mchima Estate, stating that the donation would greatly assist in maintaining cleanliness in the market and mitigating the risk of diseases such as cholera.
“This generous donation from Mchima Estate is a big step towards improving the hygiene and sanitation of our market spaces. It demonstrates a true partnership between the council and private sector, which is essential for the well-being of our community,” he said.
Kuphanga issued a stern warning against the theft of the donated equipment, cautioning that the law will take its course on those found engaging in such activities.
Acting Director of Environment and Natural Resources, Mirriam Yona commended Mchima Estate for its proactive role in supporting environmental health initiatives in Thyolo.
“Cleanliness and hygiene are crucial components of environmental management, and Mchima Estate’s support is highly commendable. We urge other estates and private entities to emulate this gesture and contribute to a healthier Thyolo,” she said.
Yona emphasized the importance of collective efforts in ensuring that markets and public spaces are kept clean to prevent the spread of communicable diseases.
6000 pets to get anti-rabies vaccine in Nkhata-Bay
By Chisomo Kambandanga
NKhata Bay, September 2, Mana: Mzuzu Agriculture Development Division (MZADD) through Nkhata-Bay District Agriculture Extension Coordinating Committee (DAECC) has launched a free mass rabies vaccination month campaign for the 2024/2025 season.
The campaign is targeting at least 6,200 out of 8000 pets in the district.
Speaking on Saturday during the launching of the initiative at Chintheche Community ground under Senior Chief Malanda in Nkhata Bay, Chief Agriculture Officer for MZADD, Francis Chilenga, said rabies remains a serious public health problem that needs serious attention from all quarters.
According to Chilenga, the targeted number represents almost 70 percent of the total pets’ population, which is recommended by the World Health Organization.
"So far this year, we have 183 suspected cases of rabies waiting for laboratory results. However, we ask for more players to help with procurement of the vaccine other than leaving such to government alone," he said.
Chilenga bemoaned low turn up in vaccination centres, which leads to more pets remaining unvaccinated subsequently causing expiry of the vaccine.
In his remarks, Nkhata Bay District Council secretariat official, Edgar Chihana applauded Center for Community Empowerment for supporting the council with procurement of the anti-rabies vaccine for the initiative.
However, Chihana appealed to community leaders to spread the message about the significance of vaccinating their pets saying they are key stakeholders in such development activities.
One of the board members of Center for Community Empowerment, Marko Chiumia, expressed commitment to continue rendering support to government in diverse development whenever they have resources.
The launch was held under the theme, “Breaking Rabies Barriers" and Nkhata Bay District will be administering the free anti-rabies vaccine to pets in all centres until the end of September this year.
Lulu dazzles delegates at Catholic journalists’ annual conference
By Arnold Namanja
Mulanje, September 2, Mana: Celebrated music artist Lawrence Khwisa, popularly known as Lulu over the weekend mesmerized delegates to this year’s Association of Catholic Journalists (ACJ) elective conference held in Mulanje District.
Lulu appeared at the 8th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at Nalipiri Eco-Tourist Resort located at the foot of Mulanje Mountain and on the banks of Likhubula River as a surprise package to the cultural evening.
The artists took to the stage which had been fired up by a local cultural outfit called Magabada from Lumbuli – Muloza Border which also left the audience in awe with its renditions.
Lulu whose performance only lasted for 30 minutes since he had just sneaked from another event at Mulanje Peaks and Rhythms happening across the district, dished out songs like ‘Ana ambiri ndi lera, Mtima wakana and Wachenjera darling’, among others.
Speaking in an interview with Malawi News Agency after his performance, Lulu said he felt duty bound to entertain the journalists despite having another assignment considering the contribution that the media has made to his music career.
“I was compelled and obligated to come because the media, let alone Catholics have been an important aspect of my life. I owe my success in the music profession to the media,” Lulu said.
On the other hand, the Magabada Cultural Theatre Group performed various traditional dances including Beni, Chisamba, Namunasini and Manganje. The cultural evening was also characterized by traditional dressing and traditional food.
Speaking with Mana, Magabada Group Leader, Weston Chipendo said they were pleased to entertain the Catholic journalists during the cultural night to spice up the evening with traditional dances to leave lasting and memorable experiences of Mulanje.
On his part, DJ Kho Makondetsa did want to be outshone with his selection of music. DJ Kho carefully selected his traditional music pieces ranging from the oldies to those trending today.
DJ Kho told Mana he had prepared well ahead of the event considering that journalists are a rare breed in society with a taste of good things in life including music.
One of the delegates, Jacqueline Saidi of Luntha TV said the cultural evening had been quite refreshing and rewarding.
“The evening has been quite an experience for me as this is the first time I am attending the ACJ AGM. It has been very interesting with a lot of unexpected events and interactions,” she said.
Similarly, Moses Michael Phiri of Nation Publications Limited praised the organizers of the AGM for providing them with an event where they were entertained for a long time.
Speaking at the official closing of the AGM, the incoming national chairperson for ACJ, Lucky Mkandawire pledged to work with dedication, observing that the ACJ needs innovation and creative minds for its sustainability.
However, Mkandawire thanked individuals and companies such as the OPC, Illovo Sugar, the management of Nalipiri and all those who took part in ensuring that the AGM was successful.
Minister hails council for promoting infrastructure
By Wanangwa Tembo
Kasungu, September 2, Mana: Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Richard Chimwendo Banda has hailed Kasungu District Council for promoting agricultural infrastructure in the district.
He spoke on Saturday when he toured the newly constructed Tchesa Extension and Planning Area (EPA) offices in Sub-Traditional Authority Mawawa in Kasungu.
Banda said the construction of the offices demonstrates the government’s seriousness in providing quality agricultural services to farmers, especially those in rural communities.
“When we talk about development in agriculture, we rely on extension workers providing best services, best technologies, equipping our farmers with the best skills regarding extension services.
“We are happy as government that we can open this office which will help our farmers to get quality extension services within short distances,” he said.
The K48 million structure was constructed with a performance-based grant under the World Bank-funded Governance to Enable Service Delivery (GESD) project.
According to Director of Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources for Kasungu District Council, Evelyn Chima, the structure which consists of four rooms, a resource hall and toilets, will serve a population of about 13 600 farming households.
Council Chairperson Mwambilaso Mbeza who is also Councilor for area (Lifupa Ward) said the EPA will reduce distances to access extension services for the people of Traditional Authorities Lukwa, Mawawa, Mangwazu and Kaphaizi.
“Agriculture is one of the priority areas of this government. For us here in Kasungu West, we are all farmers and the need for extension services cannot be overemphasized.
“This is why, we are excited with the project because it means reduced distances for us to access extension services,” she said.
GESD is a $100 million initiative supported by the World Bank aimed at strengthening local assemblies’ institutional performance, responsiveness to citizens and management of resources for service delivery.
Blue Eagles lifts 2024 FDH Cup
By Tione Andsen
Lilongwe, September 1, Mana: Chipiku Premier Division side, Blue Eagles Sunday lifted the K150 million FDH Cup for the first time after defeating defending champions, Nyasa Big bullets, on post-match penalties 3-2 at Bingu National Stadium in Area 48, in Lilongwe.
Eagles substitute goalkeeper, Joshua Waka turned to be hero of the day when he saved three penalties from Previous Phiri, Clyde Senaj and Babatunde Adepoju.
The two teams were deadlocked 0-0 at the end of the regulation time despite, Bullets creating more attacks but Eagles custodian, Brighton Munthali was marvel to watch with his reflex saves.
Eagles converted their penalties through Andrew Junvinala, Ganizani James and Ranken Mwale while Micium Mhone and Jacob Robert failed to deliver home their spots while Bullets scored their penalties through Gomezgani Chirwa and Nixon Nyasulu.
The win has prevented Bullets from claiming a treble in FDH Cup finals since 2022 and another quadruple year seems to be history.
The Area 30 Cops have claimed a treble over Bullets on Cup finals as they first did it first in 1995 when they hammered them 2-0- at Civo Stadium in Area 9 during the defunct Chibuku Cup final, and Airtel Top 8 final in 2018 when they reduced them to size with a 1-0 win through a penalty scored by Stuart Mbuenge.
Eagles Coach, Elia Guardiola Kananji has made history that he has made a third team he has coached to win a cup after Bullets and Mighty Mukuru Wanderers previously.
Both halves Bullets dominated play with Ronald Chitiyo, Babatunde and Ephraim Kondowe having an attempt at Eagles goal area but they failed to eluded ever alert, Munthali.
Eagles had a half chance after 19 minutes when Schumacher Kuwali’s effort hit the cross bar with Bullets stopper, Richard Chimbamba well beaten.
At the half mark Referee, David Chinoko appeared to be losing truck and players were committing a lot of fouls but he was always taking lenient views.
The second was more similar page of the first as Bullets continued piling pressure on the Nankhaka Boys but they still had challenge of putting the ball at the back of the net.
With nine minutes to time, Chimbamba had a poor clearance outside the edge of the penalty but the loose ball was blasted over by Eagle’s midfielder, Laurent Banda.
Eagles Coach, Kananji made a tactical change on the 89 minute when he brought out injured Munthali for Waka and it paid dividend to them.
“This was one of the fine cup final which has lived up to the billing but the pitch has marred the beauty of it. It was very unfortunately that the invasion which engineered by men in uniform when they were supposed to safeguard safety of the fans,” a football devotee from Kawale, Mayeso Mussa observed.
He added, “The invading fans have put pressure on the surface of the pitch and we only have four days to fix it before we face Burundi in the World cup qualifiers.”
As Champions, Blue Eagles will pocket K35 million while the losing finalists, Bullets will get K17 million.
MCP unveils National Executive Council, vows to foster unity and development
By Daniel Siame
Lilongwe, September 1, Mana: The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) took a significant step towards unity and development as its Secretary General, Richard Chimwendo Banda, announced the National Executive Council (NEC) at the party's headquarters in Lilongwe on Sunday.
In his address, Chimwendo described the unveiling of the NEC as a crucial milestone in the party's journey to foster unity and purpose among its members. He emphasized that, despite facing numerous challenges, the MCP remains steadfast in its commitment to driving development and progress in Malawi.
Chimwendo Banda underscored that the MCP is committed to putting aside differences and working towards a common goal.
"We recognize that our diversity is our strength, and we are determined to harness this diversity to drive development and progress," he said.
"We are proud to announce our NEC, a team of dedicated individuals who share our vision of a united and prosperous Malawi; we believe that through unity and collective effort, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness," he added.
MCP's Publicity Officer, Dr. Jessie Kabwila-Kapasula, praised the MCP's commitment to unity, saying: "Unity is not just a slogan, but a necessary condition for our collective survival and progress. When we stand together, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges and achieve greatness."
The announcement of the NEC has been welcomed by party members and supporters, who see it as a positive step towards unity and development. As Malawi continues to face various challenges, the MCP's commitment to unity and development is seen as a beacon of hope for a brighter future.
Bishop Kaulanda honored for lifetime of service
By Daniel Siame
Lilongwe, September 1, Mana: Vice President Michael Usi on Sunday presided over a farewell ceremony for Bishop Francis Kaulanda, outgoing leader of the Anglican Diocese of Lake Malawi, an event held at Silver Stadium which brought together government officials, church leaders, and congregants to honor a leader who has made a lasting impact on the nation.
In his remarks, Vice President Usi praised Kaulanda's humility, selflessness, and dedication to the church and nation.
"Bishop Kaulanda has been a true leader, demonstrating that leadership is not about power or authority but about humility and service to others," Usi remarked.
He highlighted Kaulanda's efforts to unite the Anglican Diocese of Lake Malawi, citing his legacy of love, compassion, and unity as an inspiration to many.
Vice President Usi commended Kaulanda's transformative leadership, particularly his holistic approach to ministry. He noted the establishment of the Lake Malawi Anglican University (LAMAU) as a testament to Kaulanda's vision and commitment to education.
"His service was filled with endless possibilities, and his spiritual formation has been a driving force for national transformation," Usi said.
The Vice President recognized the significant role Kaulanda played in Malawi's development process, acknowledging the fruitful partnership between the Anglican Church and the government.
In appreciation for the Vice President's attendance, Kaulanda said it indicated that the church and government share a common goal of serving the people.
He said: “There is strong partnership between religious and state institutions in promoting the welfare of Malawians. It is important to collaborate and offer mutual support in driving the nation’s progress.”
As Bishop Kaulanda retires, Vice President Usi urged Malawians to follow his example of love and service.
"Let us embody the spirit of love and service that he exemplified. Together, we can address the multi-faceted challenges facing our society and work towards building an inclusively wealthy, self-reliant, and industrialized upper-middle-income economy as envisioned in MW2063," Usi stated.
The ceremony concluded with Vice President Usi expressing his deep gratitude to Bishop Kaulanda, wishing him a peaceful and blessed retirement.
Envoy to China upbeat on FOCAC outcomes for Malawi
By Chikondi Chimala, in Beijing, China
Beijing, September 1, Mana: Malawi's Ambassador to the People's Republic of China, Allan Chintedza, expressed optimism on Sunday about the outcomes of the upcoming 4th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit, scheduled to take place from September 4th to 6th.
In an interview with the Malawi News Agency (Mana), Chintedza stated that Malawi stands to benefit from the outcomes agreed upon at the summit, following the conclusion of the previous framework that was in effect from 2021 and has now ended.
Said Chintedza: “As Malawi we will take advantage of the discussions to get opportunities in Agriculture, Mining and Tourism as key priorities, as we seek to diversify the economy to spar development for the country as espoused by President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera.
“We have to make sure that our interests as Malawi are actually agreed upon at this particular summit because if they are not taken into consideration at this summit in terms of our priority areas then we won’t be able to benefit from the next three year programme.”
The Malawi envoy also said it was important that President Chakwera accepted the invitation from Chinese President, Xi Jinping, as it will ensure that Malawi has a say at the table with its focus on agricultural modernization and mechanization, tourism and mining.
The meeting of the Heads of State and Government will be preceded by meetings of senior officials and the Ninth Ministerial Conference on 1st and 2nd September respectively which will look at technical and policy issues for recommendation for adoption by the heads of state.
The 2024 Summit will among others focus on building relations and cooperation in supporting Africa’s industrialization, energy and trade as a priority, talent development, accelerating agricultural modernization, belt and road cooperation and agenda 2063 of the African Union, modernization and mutual learning among civilizations, political, peace, and security cooperation as well as poverty reduction.
President Chakwera is expected to arrive on Monday in China and is expected to hold bilateral talks with Xi Jinping and also hold meetings with various industry captains and partners with a view for fostering developments in Malawi.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Nancy Tembo and Finance Minister Simplex Chithyola Banda will attend the ministers meeting that will develop the framework for cooperation.
FOCAC was instituted in 2020 to foster relations between China and the 53 African nations and the African Union (AU) and is held every six years while the minister’s conference is held every three years.
