MANAonline
Youths asked to increase income-generating initiatives
By Steve Chirombo
Dedza, May 30, Mana: Director of Education, Youths and Sports (DEYS), for Dedza district council, Henry Likeke, has encouraged youths in the district to be self-reliant by increasing income-generating initiatives in their communities.
He was speaking on Thursday at Traditional Authority (T/A) Kasumbu's headquarters during the Informal Vocational Skills Graduation Ceremony and the awarding of start-up materials.
Likeke asked the graduating youths to utilize all available resources for economic growth, apart from the machines received as start-up materials for their acquired skills.
"There is a tendency among some youths who are leaving this country to work in other countries, especially South Africa. That country has attained economic growth because some youths are always working tirelessly there. However, let it be noted that for our country to achieve Malawi's 2063 vision, it needs energetic individuals. Let us therefore build our Nation by diversifying our sources of income, including farming," he said.
Commenting on the development, the council’s youth officer, Twesa Mwamlima, concurred with Likeke saying the time has come for youths to work together and develop their areas.
"We appreciate Kasumbu Development Organization (Kado) for helping in taking these initiatives to transform the lives of youths. It is also very commendable to see Action Aid Malawi continuing to support community organizations," said Mwamlima.
In his remarks, Kado Executive Director, Godfrey Sandram, said since its establishment, 91 youths have been trained in various skills, including tailoring.
“Others have also learnt skills like fixing motorbikes and financial literacy skills,” said Sandram.
One of the youths who received the sewing machine, Mary David, commended Kado for the training and assured the organization that she would use it for the intended purpose.
Tongole Foundation donates desks in Nkhotakota
By Wongani Mkandawire
Nkhotakota, May 30, Mana: The Tongole Foundation on Thursday donated 75 desks, valued at K14 million, to Mwalawatongele Primary School as part of its corporate social responsibility to schools around the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve in the district.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Tongole Foundation's Country Director, Bentry Kalanga, said the organization remains committed to supporting the education sector in the country.
"The education sector is a true catalyst for the country's meaningful development and we will continue supporting it because quality education can only be achieved with such support,” said Kalanga.
Kalanga has since urged the school to ensure that the donated desks are taken care of.
He said the organization will take the initiative to other primary schools such as Chankhokwe and Chilimani in the Lozi Education Zone in the district.
Meanwhile, the Chief Education Officer of Nkhotakota District Council, Marcel Elifala, commended the foundation for the donation, saying it will greatly improve the learning environment for the learners at the institution.
Minister thanks development partners for Investing in human capital development
By Blackson Mkupatira
Chiradzulu, May 30, Mana: Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare, Jean Sendeza, has commended development partners for their continued support towards human capital development in the country.
She made the remarks on Thursday at Magomero Community Development College, where 315 students graduated with diplomas and certificates in fields such as Community Development, Social Work, and Nutrition and Irrigation Operations.
Of the graduating class, 140 students were trained through various scholarship programmes, and these included 17 Early Childhood Development practitioners and 13 nutrition practitioners supported by the World Bank.
Additionally, 40 Social Work students benefited from USAID support, while 70 others were sponsored by the British Council under the VET Toolbox II Project.
Sendeza said the support from partners has improved service delivery in key social sectors across the country.
“Government recognises that human capital development is a key driver of national productivity, and we are proud to have many partners who have played a vital role by providing both financial and technical support,” she said.
Sendeza added that, without such collaboration, government would not have been able to train most of the frontline workers who are currently serving in communities in areas such as nutrition and early childhood development.
The Minister therefore encouraged the graduates to be proactive and innovative as they await employment opportunities, saying that donor resources are dwindling while the number of graduates entering the job market continues to grow each year.
British Council representative, Mabvuto Chilenje expressed pride in the graduates from Chikwawa District who completed training in Farm Tractor Operations and Irrigation Systems Management.
“Our project aims to empower youth along the Shire Valley Transformation Project area with skills that will enable contribute to national food security,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of his fellow graduates, Mwaiwao Zidana expressed gratitude to the government, development partners, families, and all those who provided support throughout their academic journey.
“We are ready to apply the skills we have acquired in our respective fields and contribute meaningfully to the realization of Malawi Vision 2063,” he said.
Man jailed 4 years IHL over theft and unlawfully wounding a police officer
By Alice Ndunya
Machinga, May 29, Mana: Malundani Second Grade Magistrate Court sitting at Nselema in Machinga District on Thursday convicted and sentenced Muhamad Buba, 20, to four years imprisonment with hard labour (IHL) for house breaking, theft, and stabbing a police officer at the back of his neck as he tried to arrest him.
According to Sergeant Alex Macheso, a prosecutor from Nselema Police, the incident occurred on May 7, 2025, at Mwitiya Village, Traditional Authority Kapoloma, in Machinga District.
He said that around 10:00 p.m., the convict broke into the house of Fatima Muhammad Shamz, age 40, and stole various properties amounting to K2,231,500, which included an upright fridge of 210 litres.
Macheso further told the court that recovery of the stolen items was done following a tip-off by a motorcycle operator who disclosed the whereabouts of the convict.
But when the police raided the convict at his house at Nanyumbu, they only recovered the property as Buba fled to an unknown location, according to the state prosecutor..
“Police officers went back to the convict’s house on the night of May 13 to effect an arrest, but when he discovered that police officers were in his house, he went to hide behind the bedroom door,
“Whilst ransacking him, Detective Sergeant Peter Lupano of Nselema Police discovered him behind the door. The convict pulled a knife and stabbed Lupano on the lower back of his neck, but he managed to overpower him,” Macheso added..
Appearing before the Second Grade Magistrate Court on May 29, Buba pleaded guilty to all three counts levelled against him.
In his submission, Macheso prayed for stiffer punishment considering that Shamz lost some of her properties, including an upright fridge which is not functioning.
In mitigation, the convict pleaded for leniency, stating that he is young, a first-time offender, and that his parents are old, such that they depend on him for their needs.
Presenting the sentence, Magistrate Richard Kambanje concurred with the state on the gravity of the offence.
He therefore sentenced Buba to four years' imprisonment with hard labour.
Buba comes from Telela Village at Paramount Chief Kawinga’s area in Machinga District.
Government hails USA government for its support
By Pempho Kantayeni
Lilongwe, May 29, Mana: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nancy Tembo, has praised the United States government for its continued support in the social and economic development of the country.
She made the remarks at the U.S.A. Embassy Chief of Mission’s residence in Lilongwe during the 249th National Independence Day celebrations on Thursday.
“Since 1964, the U.S.A. has been the biggest bilateral donor to Malawi, having assisted us in various sectors such as, education, health, agriculture, research and through the USAID, impacting on the development of this country,” she said.
U.S.A. Chief of Mission in Malawi, Amy Diaz emphasised that USA through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), has played a vital role in shaping Malawi’s development journey by supporting smallholder farmers, strengthening health systems, and helping Malawi transition to democracy.
Diaz expressed US’s commitment towards continued partnership and the development of the country.
“As consistent supporters of democracy and the rule of law, the United States stands with the Malawian people as they enter this pivotal period. We want to continue to work with Malawi in ending systemic challenges,” she said.
The United States of America’s National Day is celebrated on July 4; however, the U.S. Embassy in Malawi holds the celebration earlier to allow participation in Malawi’s Independence Day on July 6.
Lilongwe set to buzz with weekend entertainment galore
By Yewo Munthali
Lilongwe, May 30, Mana: After a long week of chasing deadlines, clearing out files, and navigating office politics, the weekend is finally within reach and Lilongwe is ready to come alive.
This Saturday, May 31 promises a lineup of thrilling adventures, vibrant events, and unmissable experiences across the city.
Whether you’re in the mood for music, food, fashion, or fun, there’s something happening for everyone; so clear your calendar and get ready to be where the action is!
The early birds may catch the Farmers Market at Woodlands, which takes place from 7:30am to 12:30pm. Attendees can expect to experience different cuisines, fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as artisanal goodies.
Also starting early is the Family Food Festival Carnival at Umodzi Park, with gates opening at 9am and closing at 7pm.
With a K5,000 entry fee, you’re in for an adventure with over 150 stalls at your fingertips. Some of the stalls on display include Tactical Assault Games, offering the ultimate paintball experience, face painting by Ella is Art, and The Lollipop Factory, where you can order some unique refreshments.
As the carnival comes to a close, another event begins at Umodzi Park: the 2025 Consumer Choice Awards, a black-tie themed gala that will honor exceptional Malawian businesses and individuals.
Minister of Tourism, Dr Vera Kamtukule, is expected to be the guest of honour and Driemo will perform as a musical guest.
Tickets are available for purchase at K120,000 and can be acquired through Consumer Choice Awards Country Director, James Chipanda.
To cap off Saturday, gospel music lovers can gather at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) Auditorium for the Wendy Harawa Favour Gospel Concert.
The event will feature renowned Nigerian gospel singer Ada Ehi, best known for her hit “Congratulations,” along with Kamuzu Barracks, Paul Kachala, and Theresa Phondo. Tickets are K20,000 and available via Kwenda.co.
If you miss out on Saturday’s events, Sunday offers even more entertainment. The month of June begins with a Lake of Stars Pop-Up Show at Genovese Backyard in Area 47. Attendees can enjoy Sip and Paint sessions, games, and a live performance by Praise Umali. Tickets are K10,000 on Kwenda.co or K12,000 at the gate.
Later that evening, Patience Namadingo, known as “The Doc”, will take the stage at Aero Lounge in Airwing. The show starts at 9pm and ends at 10:30pm. VIP tickets are priced at K70,000, while regular tickets at the door are K25,000.
With such a jam-packed weekend ahead, Lilongwe is the place to be, don’t miss out on the fun!
Learners embrace B-EES project
By Donald Zimba
Lilongwe, May 29, Mana: Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has inaugurated the Bio-Energy from Electrical Energy in Schools (B-EES) Project in a significant stride towards integrating renewable energy with education.
The initiative introduces solar-powered technologies, including a mini oil expeller, into the primary school setting, aiming to provide students with hands-on experience in renewable energy applications.
Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Madalitso Kambauwa Wirima, officiated the launch at Kaungwe Primary School in Dowa on Friday.
She emphasized the project’s potential to inspire students towards careers in science and engineering.
“I, therefore, encourage learners to view the initiative not merely as a project but as an opportunity to gain practical skills that align with the nation’s vision for sustainable development,” she said.
Belgian Ambassador to Malawi, Peter Huyghebaert, highlighted collaborative efforts between Malawi and Belgium, noting that the project aims to enhance energy accessibility and educational opportunities in rural areas.
The B-EES Project is implemented by G-HiTech in collaboration with Ministry of Basic Education, funded through a €700,000 grant from Belgium’s FINEXPO and an additional €159,321 from the Walloon region (AWEX).
The initiative aligns with Malawi’s broader educational reforms, such as the Building Education Foundations through Innovation and Technology (BEFIT) program, which integrates solar-powered digital learning tools across primary schools, aiming to reach 3.8 million students annually.
These efforts collectively contribute to Malawi’s goal of expanding access to quality education and sustainable energy solutions nationwide.
B-EES Project exemplifies how international partnerships and innovative approaches can empower students with practical skills, preparing them to contribute to Malawi’s sustainable development goals.
Africa day signifies unity, culture
By Prisca Promise Mashushu
Lilongwe, May 29, Mana: Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mwayiwawo Polepole, has described Africa Day as the most prominent day to showcase unity and culture.
He made the remarks in preparation for the Africa Day at Capital Hill in Lilongwe on Thursday that will take place on Saturday.
Polepole said the first President of the Republic of Malawi, Dr Hastings Kamuzu Banda, was part and parcel of the birth of Africa day which was formerly known as Organisation of African Unity (OAU) hence people must celebrate the day in a unique and different way.
“Malawi as part of Africa should embrace and celebrate the day in a unique way as it will help to expose our culture and unity since we are called the Warm Heart of Africa.
“It is a time whereby we Africans come together to celebrate and show our Africanism, our culture by sharing food, dances and other different activities from our continent,” he explained.
On the day, different diplomatic missions that represent different countries will be available.
“We urge all people to come and celebrate this day at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on Saturday by showcasing different activities and also various businesses,” added Polepole.
Africa Day started in the early 1960s and is being celebrated each year on May 25 to celebrate African diversity and to and success and to highlight the cultural and economic potential that exists on the African continent.
People have, therefore, been urged to wear traditional or national wear as one way of showing Africa’s originality and culture.
CYECE hailed for program progress report sharing
By Steve Chirombo
Dedza, May 29, Mana: Principal Nutrition and HIV Officer (PNHAO), for Dedza district council, Lottie Makina, on Thursday, hailed the Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) alliance partner, Centre for Youth Empowerment and Civic Education (CYECE), for updating the council and partners on programme progress.
In Dedza district, under the alliance, CYECE has been implementing a program pilot dubbed “TlivesSHARP (Transforming Lives-SRHR Accountability, Resilience and Policy transformation for African Young People) in Malawi” around Chikuse Health Centre in the area of Traditional Authority Kasumbu.
Speaking at the closing of a program’s review meeting which brought together members of the District Health Management Team (DHMT) and District Aids Coordinating Committee (DACC), Makina said it is important that when partners start a project, they need to come back to relevant committees for update sharing.
“It is through these forums that we address the challenges encountered in the course of project implementation. It is disheartening to see projects dying once a partner leaves because we do not have an exit strategy,” he said.
According to Makina, transmission plans, exit strategies as well as building capacity at the local level are some of the key features in the sustainability of every program and these are planned well when project progress is shared.
He however hailed the SRHR alliance for ensuring that youths are greatly taking part in the project implementation.
“The youth are the future of the nation. Above all, 2063 is youth-centric. So, very sick or unhealthy youth cannot contribute effectively hence a need for them to fully access the SRHR services,” he pointed out.
On her part, CYECE’s District Coordinator for Dedza, Chifundo Kamulete, said the program aims to ensure that young people are able to access SRHR services by aligning the digital tools in order to advocate for access to SRHR services among young people.
“We trained some youth champions in the area who were able to reach out to their fellow youth and to demand services of SRHR as well as to make them aware of what SRHR services are at the facility and also what SRHR issues and barriers that young people are facing in their communities,” she said.
She further said more youth prefer reaching out to the champions and hearing how they could access the services, health centres as well as nearby facilities.
“As the program seeks to progress, there is a need for service provision and collaboration with different service providers, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and also scale-up to other areas,” she stressed.
The programme is being implemented with funds from SIDA through SAFAIDS.
MEC urges Mzimba residents to go for voter verification exercise
By Joel Phiri
Mzimba, May 29, mana: District Elections Officer for Mzimba Chrispin Chakhumbira has asked all registered voters in the district to go to their registration centres and verify their names in the voters’ register.
Chakhumbira made the remarks on Wednesday during a meeting with M’mbelwa District Council’s district elections support (DEST) team, a briefing on preparedness ahead of the verification exercise which will run from 29th May to 31st May 2025.
Speaking during the meeting, Chakhumbira said all materials and staff have been deployed to all registration centres where people will do the verification.
“We have deployed all the materials such as verification machines, gensets and human resources to ensure that every registered voter should be able to verify their details in the system,’’ he said.
Team Leader for Mzimba Elections Team Henderson Kaliati said in Mzimba South they have 322 verification centres where people will go to do the verifications.
“We started deploying staff and machines three days ago and almost everything has been done. We are all set for the verification exercise,’’ said Kaliati.
Kaliati said registered voters going for verification should remember to carry the National Identity Card and the voter registration certificate to verify their names.
“Those who may fail to bring these should remember to give out their biographic details that would enable them to verify their names in the system,’’ he said.
Director of administration for M’mbelwa District Council Viston Mulungu said members of DEST are ready to render support to the verification process as well as to monitor the entire verification exercise.
