MANAonline
Three arrested for possessing hippo ivory in Mzimba
By Lesnat Kenan
Lilongwe, June 12, Mana: Police at Jenda in Mzimba, have arrested three men in connection with illegal possession of a hippo ivory (found in the hippo's canine teeth) which is a protected species under Malawi law.
The three suspects have been identified as Hadson Chunga, Gomezgani Jere, and Malani Tembo.
According to Jenda Police Station Public Relations Officer, Sub Inspector Macfarlen Mseteka, the arrests, followed an intelligence driven investigation after the station received information that some unknown individuals were offering hippo ivory for sale around Jenda Trading Centre.
"Chunga was traveling from Embangweni to Jenda Trading Cssentre to meet a buyer he had connected with, along with two other individuals who were escorting him, before he could complete the sale,” he said.
Mseteka added that the suspects were unable to produce any documentation authorising them to possess and sale the specimen.
All the three suspects, who are from Mzimba district, will appear in court soon after completion of the paperwork to answer charges of illegal possession and offering for sale a spacemen of a protected species, which is contrary to Section 86 of the National Parks and Wildlife Act.
Meanwhile, the specimen has been sent to the Department of Parks and Wildlife for analysis.
Kunkuyu pushes for affordable ICT services
By Innocent Manda
Lilongwe, June 12, Mana: Minister of Information and Digitalization, Moses Kunkuyu, has called on African leaders and regional bodies to prioritize lowering the cost of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) infrastructure and services, emphasizing that affordability is critical to achieving inclusive digital transformation.
Kunkuyu made the remarks at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe on Thursday during the 13th Annual General Meeting of ICT regulators under the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).
The meeting, which is being held under the theme “Growing Together for Prosperity”, brings together key stakeholders to deliberate on strategies for harmonizing digital development across the region.
“Our discussions at regional and continental levels must focus on promoting the affordability of ICT infrastructure. We must ensure the reduction of costs so that even citizens in remote areas can enjoy internet access. That’s the only way to truly empower our people and bridge the digital divide,” said Kunkuyu.
He, therefore, commended Malawi’s strides in digital transformation, highlighting the ongoing implementation of the Digital Malawi Portal.
He pointed out that the country currently enjoys 75 percent 4G coverage and 89 percent 3G coverage, marking significant progress in broadband expansion.
“As Malawi, we are a shining example. We have completed our national fibre optic backbone, introduced free public Wi-Fi, and connected key government institutions to improve access to information. We’re also installing computer laboratories in secondary schools to build digital skills from the grassroots,” he added.
COMESA Assistant Secretary General, Dr Kadah Muhammad, underscored the role of regulatory bodies in creating conducive environment for innovation and business growth.
“Transparency in regulatory frameworks is essential. We must support intellectual property rights and ensure our policies are tailored to attract investment and foster technological integration in our region,” said Kadah.
He noted that while mobile phone penetration has grown significantly in many African countries and eased challenges in the communication sector, the region still grapples with high internet costs, limited accessibility, and readiness for emerging technologies such as 5G and Artificial Intelligence.
Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) Director of Telecommunications and Chairperson of ARICEA, Edward Kauka, praised the assembly for strengthening regional cooperation among COMESA member states.
“This year’s general meeting is a timely platform for enhancing collaboration across COMESA. Through such engagements, we can collectively implement our digital strategies and move towards a more connected and integrated region,” he said.
ARICEA was established to promote cooperation, harmonize regulatory policies, and foster information sharing among ICT and communication regulators in the region to ensure no citizen is left behind in the digital revolution.
FOCUS donates balls to primary schools in Karonga
By George Mponda
Karonga, June 12, Mana; The Foundation for Community Support Services (FOCUS), through Child Not Pride Project, has donated balls to 20 primary schools in Karonga District to keep learners active and refrain from bad influence.
Speaking Thursday during a symbolic handover of the donation at Rukuru Primary School, Executive Director for FOCUS, Kosamu Munthali, said the donation is in response to a request by Champions of Change, a grouping of trained youth leaders who mentor and advise their peers, both in and out of school.
"The donation made to beneficiary schools in areas of Paramount Chief Kyungu and Senior Chief Mwilang’ombe aims to promote mental and physical well-being of learners through sports.
“This initiative will also boost learner enrollment hence promoting primary education in the district," said Munthali.
He added that sports can serve as a platform through which youth can engage on issues such as sexual and reproductive health and instilling self-esteem among learners.
Deputy Head Teacher for Rukuru Primary School, Ive Shankhoma, commended FOCUS for the support saying the initiative will enhance learners’ attendance in class.
"Through the Champions of Change initiative, learners encourage each other to be working hard in school. These peer-led discussions have helped learners move away from harmful cultural practices that previously affected their education," Shankhoma said.
MEC brief candidates on nomination procedures
By Alice Ndunya
Machinga, June 12, Mana: Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has urged aspiring candidates for parliamentary and local government elections to take heed of the nomination process to avoid delays as they prepare to contest for the September 16 general elections.
The plea was made at Machinga District Council Chamber on Wednesday when MEC briefed aspiring candidates and other district electoral stakeholders on nomination process.
During the meeting, MEC, Malawi Council of Disability Affairs (MACODA) and National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Trust underscored issues regarding eligibility criteria to contest, protocols for candidates with disabilities, code of conduct for political parties, nomination fees and step by step completion for nomination forms.
District Elections Officer for Machinga, Horrace Chapweteka, said the meeting will help minimise challenges that aspirants face during nomination process.
“We expect aspirants to hand in their nomination forms with confidence knowing they have followed all protocols inline with the electoral laws and regulations,” he said.
Aspiring ward councillor for Mpiri Ward in Machinga North East, Evelyn Lifa Yusuff, commended MEC for organising the meeting describing it as informative.
“Being the first time to aspire for the position, I did not have enough information regarding nomination process. I have now been properly directed,” she said.
Another aspiring candidate for ward councillor, Benito Chilenje, said he will follow the outlined nomination guidelines accordingly.
“I have learnt that young aspirants for local government elections are required to pay K100,000. This will help me make proper budgeting,” said.
Machinga District Rehabilitation Officer for MACODA, Chester Mtengula, hailed people with disabilities for vying for various elective positions in the district, citing local government and parliamentary elections.
“We appreciate this and we thank MEC for making the elections inclusive. This will encourage a number of people with disabilities to contest.
“Since aspiring candidates with disability are paying half the nomination fee, some organisations will also assist in paying to reduce financial burden that might hinder them from participating,” he said.
NICE Trust Programmes Officer for Machinga, Francis Mugwa, called on aspiring candidates to advocate for peace ahead of the elections.
“I am sure the meeting reminded political parties on the significance of peace and unity during elections period,” he said.
According to MEC, nomination fee for male aspiring candidates for the local government elections is K200,000 whereas female, youth and people with disabilities is K100,000.
Male aspiring candidates for parliamentary elections are expected to pay K2,500,000 while female, youth and persons with disabilities are at K1,250,000.
Chakwera reconstitutes Private Sector Council
By Yankho Banda
Lilongwe, June 12, Mana: President Dr Lazarus Chakwera has reconstituted the Presidential Private Sector Council appointing a 20 member team drawn from various disciplines.
The Council aims to serve as the highest platform for public-private dialogue, aligning with Malawi's development goals under the Malawi 2063.
According to a State House press release signed by Presidential Press Secretary, Anthony Kasunda, the Council is a vital component of the Agriculture, Tourism, Mining and Manufacturing (ATMM) Strategy to drive targeted investments in key growth areas and achieve the Malawi 2063 vision of an industrialized, middle income economy by 2030.
“The mandate of the Council includes advising the President on strategies to bolster wealth creation, job opportunities, and food security.
“It will also monitor and support initiatives designed to create an inclusive and self-reliant economy,” reads the statement in part.
Members are expected to meet regularly with the President over a two-year term.
Prominent figures appointed in the council include Dr Betty Chinyamunyamu, CEO for NASFAM; Dr Napoleon Dzombe, entrepreneur for Kalipano Hotel and Dr Ronald Mangani, Group CEO for Press Corporation Plc.
The council’s establishment signals government’s commitment to fostering a robust partnership with the private sector in driving sustainable development.
14 arrested for different crimes in Mchinji
By Santos Zefania
Lilongwe, June 12, Mana: Police in Mchinji have arrested 13 people for being found in possession of medical drugs without permit and one for possessing and trading in medical drugs without permit.
According to Mchinji Police Public Relations Officer, Sub Inspector Limbani Mpinganjira, the arrests have been made following an intelligence driven operation orchestrated by the Mchinji One Stop Border Post (OSBP) on the night of June 11, 2025.
He said during the operation detectives from Mchinji OSBP, upon working on intelligence, raided a shop and nabbed a 35 year old man identified as Victor Kachingwe, for possession of assorted medical drugs without permit.
"Kachingwe was found with 46 capsules of Doxycycline, nine tablets of Ibuprofen, 10 tablets of Arthermether Lufemetrin (LA), 65 capsules of Indocid, Piliton, 68 tablets of Paracetamol, 60 tablets of Chrolophenical and 65 tablets of Novidar SP whose value is not yet known.
"Later detectives raided the trading centre at the border and arrested Elijah Banda, 34; Duncain Daiton, 30; Steven Wiseman, 25 and 10 others for possessing loose Cannabis Sativa in a bucket and 604 twists of the ilicit drug without license," Mpinganjira explained.
Meanwhile, police have recovered the medical drugs and Cannabis Sativa pending examination by experts from Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority and Chitedze Research Station respectively.
The 14 suspects are expected to appear before court soon to answer their charges.
MEC courts Nkhotakota aspirants
By Wongani Mkandawire
Nkhotakota, June 12, Mana: Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) on Wednesday held an engagement briefing with aspiring political candidates for Nkhotakota district on nomination processes for the forthcoming general elections.
Nkhotakota District Commissioner, Ben Matengeni Tohno, opened the meeting by reading a letter from the Chairperson of the Commission, urging all aspiring candidates to cooperate and avoid conflicts as they are preparing for the elections.
Malawi Congress Party (MCP) aspiring candidate for Nkhotakota Nkula Constituency, Skeffa Chimoto, described the meeting as crucial saying most of the questions they had have been answered accordingly.
He, therefore, said aspirants expect to kick-start their nomination processes with ease.
Chimoto added that it is their responsibility to ensure that their followers are disciplined and informed so that aspirants should not be disqualified for infringing some of the rules and regulations for the upcoming elections.
"It is painful for someone who has been carrying out activities to take part in the elections to be disqualified. So, it is our responsibility to make sure that our supporters adhere to all the guidelines set out by the relevant body conducting the election", said Chimoto.
MEC organized the meeting to equip all aspiring candidates for the nomination process on eligibility, electoral code of conduct and correct filling of nominations forms.
JCM Power distributes sewing machines to Kanzimbe Youth
By Fostina Mkandawire
Salima, June 11, Mana: As part of its youth skills activities under Livelihood Restoration Programme (LRP), JCM Power, an independent Power producer has distributed nine sewing machines to nine students who were trained in tailoring at Kindle Vocation Centre supported by JCM Power.
The distribution exercise took place on Wednesday, at Kanzimbe Village, a catchment area where JCM power operates in the district.
According to LRP Chairperson, Timothy Tembo, the skills training for the youth has a great impact in uplifting the households of project affected people who have enrolled for different trainings.
"He said project affected individuals deserve a significant change of their livelihoods through various interventions aimed at promoting a better livelihood," he said.
JCM Community Liaison Officer, Levison Masamba said under the project, JCM power has trained 50 youths in driving with C1 driving licence, 11 youths in carpentry and joinery, 21 youths in brick laying, nine in tailoring and 11 in solar technology.
"The project includes training and startup kits for every trade. The goal is to make sure that our project affected persons have an alternative source of income to subsistence farming." He said.
Masamba added that the machines are provided for free as a startup for the youth.
One of the youths, Conex Frackson who is a beneficiary commended JCM power for the training and the sewing machine provided.
He added that he has gained the skill and will be self-sufficient and not depend on handouts.
Salima district eyes peaceful and inclusive elections
By Max Medson
Salima, June 11, Mana: Political leaders in Salima District have been urged to promote peace and inclusivity as Malawi prepares for its upcoming general elections.
Speaking at a Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) briefing session on nomination procedures for aspiring candidates, District Commissioner, James Mwenda emphasized the importance of adherence to electoral guidelines.
Reading a message from MEC Chairperson, Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, Mwenda stressed the role of political leaders in ensuring a violence-free election.
He assured stakeholders that all relevant council sectors are committed to upholding fair and peaceful electoral processes.
"We are working closely with the police to ensure peaceful campaigns. Security officers will be assigned to political rallies to guarantee that events are conducted ethically and in line with MEC's regulations," Mwenda said.
In a bid to foster inclusivity, Charles Chipembere from the Malawi Council for Disability Affairs (MACODA) pledged to support the participation of persons with disabilities in the political process.
"As MACODA, we are committed to ensuring that persons with disabilities exercise their right to participate in political and public life equally. We will work with MEC to provide the necessary equipment for a smooth nomination process nationwide, in accordance with Section 33 of the Persons with Disabilities Act of 2024," Chipembere stated.
District Elections Officer, Alinafe Chisenga, revealed that MEC has reduced nomination fees for candidates with disabilities.
"We believe in fair representation. Lowering the nomination fees for candidates with disabilities is part of our effort to ensure that no Malawian is left behind in the political space," she said.
Independent parliamentary candidate for Salima Central East (Maganga Ward), Nasreen Khonat, praised the initiative for addressing challenges faced by female candidates.
"As women, we are often underestimated in political space, especially in parliamentary roles. But this session has reassured me. With support of the council, police, and MEC, I am confident that women can and should take up leadership positions," she said.
With stakeholders across the district reaffirming their commitment to peaceful, fair, and inclusive elections, the district is optimistic for peaceful campaigns and elections.
Dowa DC urges peace amongst aspirants
By Tamala Kamanga
Dowa, June 11, Mana: District Commissioner for Dowa Stallichi Mwambiwa has urged aspiring candidates to contest as Councilors and Members of Parliament in the coming September general elections to uphold peace and calmness during the nomination process.
Mwambiwa made the appeal Wednesday during a meeting organized by the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to brief the aspirants on the nomination process, which was held at the council chamber.
"During this period, you are free to come with your supporters for moral support and, where necessary, celebrations, but ensure that neither you nor your supporters engage in any acts of violence.
"If violence arises, the council, in collaboration with the police, will enforce the law without hesitation to ensure the process is free, fair, transparent and successful," he said.
In his remarks, MEC District Elections Officer, Luciano Tiferankhani said MEC organised the meeting to provide aspirants with strategies for easing the registration process and resolving emerging issues.
"We expect this meeting to contribute to minimizing challenges like rejection of nomination papers, which occurs when the required standards on the papers are not met," he said.
One of the independent aspirants for the parliamentary seat in Dowa Mphudzu Constituency, Alisty Litepo Banda, said she was pleased with the meeting as it has enlightened the aspirants to understand the requirements needed to qualify as a candidate in the elections.
She further said that as a leader, she will ensure her followers avoid violence to achieve peace and harmony.
"It is true that leaders set the tone and, if not careful, can create chaos, and followers tend to follow.
"But on my part, I will ensure that in my meetings, I focus on bringing forward ideas that promote development rather than insulting my opponents," she said.
