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Youths called to take charge of environment Youths called to take charge of environment
By Fostina Mkandawire
Salima, June 17, Mana: Civil Society Network on Climate Change (CISONECC) has called upon youths to be on the forefront in taking care of the environment as one way of showing responsibility and giving back to their communities.
The Call was made in Salima when CISONECC in collaboration with National Youth Network on Climate Change (NYCC) conducted training sessions on Climate Change Advocacy for Children, Youth, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).
CISONECC's Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning Manager, Chimwemwe Kapichi said the importance of empowering young people and CSOs in advancing climate action and to be agents of change in the community.
He said instilling values of environmental protection such as avoiding cutting down trees and avoiding littering at a young age is important because they would grow up to be responsible human beings who have great regard for the environment.
"We know that young people can be powerful advocates when there is need for change, they can mobilize one another and bring change to their society," the Manager said.
Kapichi said the youths are in majority in the country as a result bringing them on board on issues of climate change and environmental safeguarding would yield greater results.
"The project does not only educate participants about climate change but also empowers them to be proactive in their communities, fostering a bottom-up approach to environmental advocacy and action," he said.
District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) for Salima, Edgar Kasiyafumbi commended CISONECC for its initiative in raising awareness among children about their rights and responsibilities concerning climate change.
He said Salima is a disaster prone district and some of the disasters are human made through environmental degradation, therefore training youths about such issues is helpful.
"We need the youth to take responsibility of the environment, they need to spearhead issues of the environment and act as champions for other youths in their community," the DSWO said.
One of the youths at the training, Priscilla Majiga, 15 said the training was an eye opener in the sense that she has now been empowered to stand up for other youths to guard against environmental mismanagements.
She expressed optimism that she would inform other youths on climate change, hazardous practices that damage the environment and environmental advocacy.
The activity attracted 70 children and youth participants draw from Traditional Authorities (TAs) Pemba and Kambwiri in the district.
Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) through Save the Children International in Malawi is implementing a Capacity Strengthening Programme in the district.
Chilima rests
By Leonard Masauli & Maston Kaiya
Ntcheu, June 17, Mana: Scores of people from Malawi and other international dignitaries on Monday converged at Nsipe Primary School ground in Ntcheu to witness the burial of late Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima who died in a plane crash on Monday, June 11, 2024 along with eight others.
In eulogy, A represented the bereaved family, Elizabeth Mkandawire Mwanga said Late Vice President, Chilima was happy loving and charitable man, who was poised to come a global leader.
She thanked the international community, Malawi government and church community for honouring him.
“Allow me to thank United Transformation Movement (UTM) and for the support rendered during the mourning period and thanks to chiefs for the love. I would like to thank the people of Malawi for the gesture during the mourning period.
“I would like appeal to government to conduct the investigation to establish the truth and that such a tragedy should not happen again. Let me appeal to the Nation to keep the Chilima dream alive and not to give up hope so that his dreams become a reality. Osaopa, osatopa, osafooka,”Mwanga said.
In his in eulogy, Dr Ben Chilima thanked government and former Presidents and Chiefs for the support.
In paying his last respect, Inkosi Ya Makosi Gomani V said Late Vice President was the pride of the Ngoni people in Ntcheu.
He said Chilima was both a friend and advisor who was always there in times of need.
Gomani thanked the support from government and everyone else who have taken their hand to remember the late Vice President during the funeral.
“Chilima was peaceful, humble, and loving who always wanted to see Malawi developed and this is why he always put the country’s future first in his priorities. Let me ask the people of Malawi to continue wishing the country well just as he had hoped,” he added.
Among others who attended the burial include Former President, Dr Bakili Muluzi, Former President, Peter Mutharika, Former Vice President, Khumbo Kachali, UTM Secretary General Patricial Kaliati,
In his sermon when he conducted a funeral mass, Archbishop, Thomas Luke Msusa of Blantyre Diocese said several Malawians are in mourning for the departed late Vice President and this was why all Roman Catholic faithfuls hold Mass in remembrance of him.
He encouraged the people to maintain peace just as how late Vice President had hoped for, and his death should not bring about confusion and disagreements among the people.
A devout Christian, the late Chilima was born on February 12, 1973, who together with his wife, Mary had two children.
The first to lay the wreaths was the wife of the late, Madame, Mary Chilima, President, Dr Lazarus Chakwera and Madame Monica Chakwera, Former President Dr Bakili Muluzi, Former President, Peter Mutharika and his wife, Gertrude Mutharika among others.
The late Chilima and eight others died in a plane crash in Chikangawa Forest in Mzimba district.
Human rights key to people’s lives
By Lekereni Chinkhota
Salima, June 17, Mana: Senior Chief Makanjira has underscored the importance of having traditional leaders who are conversant with issues to do with human rights and gender related laws to promote development, inclusion, education and protection of people.
Speaking during a two-day training session of Traditional Leaders on Human Rights and Gender related laws in Salima district, he said knowledge in these rights and laws was essential to the promotion of good leadership skills, protection of people and leading them in various developments.
"I am excited by this initiative for it will transform my area to have people who know and respect issues of human rights. Being an area located along the lake, our children were not attending school because they were much interested in fishing," Makanjira said.
He added that, "At first we were not considering this as a problem until we have been told that these children have rights to education. We want our children to know their rights and how to respect them."
Makanjira said that the knowledge gap on human rights and gender related laws contributed to challenges that affected women and children.
"Knowledge on human rights promote development because people can be responsible on how best they can contribute or take care of different developments in our areas. If people do not know about their rights it is easy to misuse or misinterpret these rights and do what they want which will ruin development," he said.
Senior Chief Makanjira assured that the traditional leaders would take the information and tell their subjects on the importance of protecting the rights of women and children who are prone to human rights violations.
District Community Development Officer for Salima, Samuel Chimwaza said chiefs, being custodians of the people, they need to be equipped with information on human rights so that they could protect their people.
"We need to collaborate and coordinate with stakeholders so that no one is ignorant about their rights or in case of violations they should know where to seek justice," he said.
Chimwaza called upon traditional leaders not to disregard human rights as they are undertaking their different duties, so that they should be upholding human rights.
A Community member from Nyambalo Village, Stefano Malola said that knowledge in human rights makes implementation of developmental activities easier because people contribute willingly.
"Our area has been lacking behind in terms of knowing and respecting human rights. Many people were neglecting these rights that led to the violation of these rights particularly to children and women. But I am sure that from now on, everybody will be aware of what to do in order to exercise their rights to the maximum," he said.
The Training was facilitated by Women Legal Resources Centre (WOLREC) through a WE EFFECT funded project, under a theme: "promoting gender transformative approaches (CIVSAM) programme for the improvement of women's lives" being implemented in Senior Chief Makanjira.
Chakwera assures Malawians of an independent investigation on VP plane crash
By Sella Singini and Tabbu Kitta Kauye
Lilongwe, June 16, mana: President Lazarus Chakwera has assured Malawians that a thorough and transparent independent investigation will be conducted in order to establish the cause of the plane crash that claimed the life of Vice President (VP), Dr. Saulos Chilima and eight others at Chikangawa forest in Mzimba district on Monday.
Chakwera made the assurance on Sunday during a funeral ceremony for the late VP that took place at Bing stadium in Lilongwe.
In his eulogy, the Malawi leader said he has already asked other countries to assist with the investigation.
“I understand that Malawi Defence Force (MDF) has its own protocols of conducting investigations, however that alone is not enough. Therefore, as of now it is necessary to involve independent investigators so that all Malawians including me should have solid answers on what really happened.
“I humbly implore all Malawians to remain calm and patient, as we will be waiting for the findings of the investigation. I also want to assure you that every Malawian will know the findings of the investigation once completed” he said.
The president noted that the four years he worked with Chilima, he has learnt the virtues of patience, forgiveness, peace and hard work.
In his eulogy, Chilima’s first-born son, Sean, described his late father as role model, leader and a great family man.
“My dad used to start his day with morning prayers at an altar in the house, then he would join the 6 o’clock mass at church, he would then exercise before starting his official work. This attest to how devoted my father was to his faith” he said.
The late VP`s son said the numerous tributes and stories that Malawians are sharing about his father, is a testimony of a great man, his late father was.
In his address president of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi, Archbishop George Tambala, said Chilima’s teachings will continue to inspire the young people to strive for the best.
Tambala said Chilima has taught the country to believe in the impossible.
He described Chilima, as a humble man, who served God with passion, and could do any church tasks, including mopping in the church regardless of his status in the society.
Late Chilima is expected to be laid to rest on Monday, 17th June 2024, in his home village in Nsipe, Ntcheu.
He was born on 12th February 1973 and is survived by a wife and two children.
SMEs and digital transactions key for FDH bank growth
By Tikondane Vega
Nassau, June 15, Mana: At the just ended three days 31st African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) meeting in Nassau, Bahamas, FDH Bank told the gathering that digital transactions and Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have been key to the bank's growth.
Deputy Managing Director, George Chitera Friday panel discussion titled “Unlocking the Opportunities to African Trade and Finance through Africa Trade Gateway (ATG) platform”.
The ATG is one portal that gives access to digital platforms such as customer due diligence platform, the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), a scheme that enables payment for intra-African trade in national currencies; the Tradar Club, a network for international businesses aimed at fostering growth in Africa; e-commerce platform the Africa trade exchange and ATG Connect, which provides freight and logistics connectivity solutions.
During the discussion, Chitera said SME banking continues to be a focal point for FDH Bank as a growth engine, evidenced by annual growth for the past years, Malawi Stock Exchange-listed Bank has been operating.
He said, “As pioneers of ATG in Malawi, the service came as an opportunity for the bank that champions growth and took it as a great avenue for growth since it enables the Bank better deliver on its mandate by providing critical services to support and promote African trade and the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).
“The Bank aspires to stay committed by supporting SMEs and reaffirms its commitment to providing cutting-edge digital solutions in response to the growing importance of e-commerce in Malawi and beyond.
In his contribution to the discussion, Executive Vice President for Global Trade Bank under Afrexim, Haytham ElMaayergi said the coming of ATG as digital evolution was part of its deliberate strategic response to address Africa’s key challenges to accelerate the pace of development and foster economic prosperity for Africans using and applying digital technologies and business models.
“Each one of our digital interventions is designed to address identified challenges and barriers for those seeking to engage in African trade and investment. I am pleased that each intervention has been successfully transformed from concept to reality and commend the hard work of our colleagues and partners in achieving these milestones.
“The Gateway is intended to “quicken regional integration, extend and create new access markets and accelerate the digital economy in Africa. Customers will be able to complete all their transactions within the one window,” he said while urging all people in different countries to make use of the opportunity to complete their dreams.
Nation is paying last respect to late Chilima
By Sheminah Nkhoma and Patience Longwe
Lilongwe, June 15, Mana: President, Dr. Lazarus Chakwera Saturday led the nation in paying their last respect to late Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima in a solemn and emotional ceremony at Parliament Building in Lilongwe.
The occasion saw attendance from former Presidents, diplomats, international dignitaries, and representatives from various political parties and religious organizations.
The death of Dr. Chilima marks the end of a notable chapter in the country’s history and his vision and efforts will undoubtedly continue to shape the nation's future for years to come.
The impact of Dr. Chilima's sudden passing has been profoundly felt across the nation.
Tributes have poured in from all sectors of society, reflecting the significant influence he had on the country's socio-political landscape.
His leadership and dedication to fostering a more equitable society have inspired countless individuals.
Government declared 21 days of national mourning, with flags being flown at half-mast in honour of late Dr. Chilima.
As the Nation grapples with this significant loss, a call for his continued mission of promoting transparency and accountability, fostering development in the country.
The Body of late, Dr Chilima will be taken to Bingu National Stadium (BNS) on Sunday, June 16 2024, where prayers will be conducted.
The late Vice President Chilima will be laid to rest on Monday, June 17, 2024 at Nsipe Village, Ntcheu District.
Government set to establish 395 civic education hubs
By Memory Chatonda
Blantyre, June 14, Mana: Government plans to establish 395 civic education hubs across the country to advocate for a positive mindset change among citizenry on various issues of development.
Deputy Director of Civic Education in the Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Lawrence Useni disclosed this Friday in Blantyre during capacity building and knowledge sharing of civic education hubs for southern region.
Useni said Malawi 2063 mandates the Ministry to establish the hubs comprising civil society organizations and government extension workers to sensitize the public at the village, traditional authority and district levels on various issues of development.
“So far, we have established 14 hubs and these structures are working hand in hand with district councils to identify areas that are problematic for sensitization. In some councils, their concern is school dropouts among girls, while in others, their area of focus is child protection in general,” he said.
National Planning Commission Development Planning Officer responsible for Mindset Change enabler, Salim Ahmed Mapila described the civic education hubs as crucial in the overall implementation of Malawi 2063.
“If you look at the vision document itself, it’s anchored on three pillars and seven enablers and a cross-cutting and key among the seven is mindset change. Within that, we are looking at how we could change people’s way of thinking as a development tool so that we have a citizenry that is geared towards development,” he noted.
Mapila asked for increased popularization of the document, saying the development would lead to the recruitment of more mindset change agents to help in the implementation of Malawi 2063.
“Currently, nearly 90 percent of Malawian adults are aware of the vision document and some pieces of what is contained in the document, but what the commission is geared at now is to let the people understand it better and help in its implementation. So, the civic education hub is one of the avenues we are exploring,” he said.
One of the participants from Chiwalo Civic Education Hub in Phalombe, Fanny Khalambe hailed the government for establishing their hub, which has gone far and beyond in sensitizing communities on the vision document and also seeking their effective participation to achieve the Malawi 2063 development objectives.
“Besides, we advocate for girl-child education, improved farming technologies and lobby for market linkages from various local and international organizations,” she said.
Body of Late Chilima arrives at State Residence
By Priscilla Phiri and Lesnart Kenani
Lilongwe, June 14, Mana: The body of late Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima has arrived at State Residence in Area 12, Lilongwe where the wake of his funeral will take place.
There was a sombre mood as multitudes of Malawians from all walks of life that have gathered at the residence to mourn Chilima.
Government officials, political party officials, the Ngoni community, religious leaders are among those present at the residence.
The Body has arrived at the residence from a Requiem mass which was held at St Patricks Parish Church, together with family members.
The casket was carried by Malawi Defence Force (MDF) pall bearers.
A Military gun salute was sounded in honour of the late Vice President, 30 minutes after the arrival of his remains.
Chilima’s body will be moved to Parliament Buildings on Saturday, June 15, 2024 where it will lie in state for Malawians to pay their final respects.
Vice President Chilima died on a plane crash together with eight others on June 10,2024 and he will be laid to rest on Monday, June 17, 2024 at Nsipe Village, Ntcheu District.
Late Chilima to be remembered as a Saint
By Eunice Disi and Rosalia Kapiri
Lilongwe, June 14, Mana: President, Dr. Lazarus Chakwera and First Lady Madam Monica Chakwera with thousands of Malawians on Friday afternoon attended funeral mass service to pray for the late Vice President, Dr. Saluos Chilima at St. Patrick's Parish in Lilongwe.
Describing the late Chilima as a dedicated and humble member of the church, the assistant officiating Rev. Father Zulu said Chilima would be remembered as a Saint in their prayers at St. Patrick's Parish.
"It all feels like a dream; we are all crying. Chilima was a church elder here and he loved the church so much. He was an easy going person, easy to interact with. I thank Madam Mary Chilima and the President for allowing this mass to take place," he said.
Speaking during the Mass, Dr. Matthews Mtumbuka who is the Parish Chairperson described Chilima as a dedicated member of the church who was ever present at every church's event.
"I know that death is painful but Chilima's passing has hurt so much because he has left a huge gap that no one will be able to fill.
"Chilima was a devoted Catholic whose Christianity was portrayed in everything that he did and it's my prayer that God in heaven should reward him for his good deeds," he said.
Auxiliary Bishop of Lilongwe Archdiocese, Bishop Vincent Mwakhwawa officiated the Mass at St. Patrick's Parish where late Chilima used to attend church services since 2007. In his words the Bishop said Chilima's legacy will carry on.
Major Aidini laid to rest in Mangochi
By Bishop Witmos
Mangochi, June 14, Mana: There were gun shots by the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) soldiers at Chiwalo Village in Traditional Authority (TA) Nankumba in Mangochi on Friday as one way of paying their last respect to their fellow colleague in arms, the late Major Wales Aidini.
Aidini, an airplane technician, died together with the Vice President Dr. Saulos Chilima and seven others in a tragic plane crash in Chikangawa Forest on Monday.
Speaking on behalf of the President, Dr. Lazarus Chakwera, Minister of Trade and Industry, Sosten Gwengwe said that Aidini is a fallen hero, who died while serving the country.
Gwengwe, who was accompanied by Minister of Energy, Ibrahim Matola, described the Chikangawa tragedy as a big loss to the country, as it has taken away very productive citizens.
“Personally, I have traveled in that plane for in so many occasions,” he said of the plane that remains a wreckage.
“Apart from that, I was with the Vice President and some of our departed friends in South Korea just a few hours before the accident. As such, I am very confused as it is so painful and difficult to believe that our colleagues are no longer with us,” the Minister said.
Gwengwe asked communities to exercise patience and restraint while waiting for the results of an investigation of what really happened leading to the plane crash.
“You will appreciate the fact that President Chakwera has made a directive on the launch of an investigation that will lead to the establishment of what really happened. As such, let us exercise patience while we are waiting for results of that investigation,” he said.
Land Forces Commander, Major General Chikunkha Soko said Aidini was a dedicated as well as committed soldier.
Soko said Aidini joined the military in 2001 and later did a number of Aircraft Engineering courses.
“Due to his hard work and education, Wales was promoted in 2017 as Captain and in 2020 as Major.” he added.
“He had four medals to his credit and worked under the United Nations in Ivory Coast and in DRC. We have lost an icon,” he said.
Member of Parliament for Mangochi-Monkey Bay, Ralph Jooma said he was lost with words at the death of Aidini, whom he described as a brother.
“Among the children we considered as educated in our area was Wales. It is so painful,” he said.
“I just received an invitation to their family function in the coming months. But as of now, he is no longer with us. With that, we are speechless,” Jooma added.
He commended President Chakwera for issuing a directive for an investigation into the tragic death of Chilima, crew and the other five passengers in Chikangawa on June 10, 2024.
In his eulogy, representative of the bereaved family, Omega Mlelemba said the deceased has left a gap as he was the bread-winner for the whole family.
“As a family, we are speechless for the passing on of our brother. We were all going to him to ask for support, as such, we have been left hopeless,” she said.
Born on February 16, 1981, Aidini is survived by a wife and five children.
