MANAonline
Malawi rekindles self-help spirit as government launches 2025/26 Community Development Month
By Rosalia Kapiri
Lilongwe, April 30, Mana: The Government of Malawi has officially launched the 2025/2026 Community Development Month (CDM) initiative, reigniting the self-help spirit among Malawians and empowering communities to take charge of their development through collaboration, mindset change, and local resource mobilization.
In a press briefing held on Wednesday at the Ministry of Gender in Lilongwe, Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare, Jean Sendeza, officially launched the 2025/2026 Community Development Month (CDM) implementation season, emphasizing the government’s renewed commitment to grassroots-driven development and reduced dependency.
“I am pleased to be part of the Government of Malawi’s commission on the implementation of Community Development Map (CDM) initiatives. This initiative is designed to build capacity in our communities to meaningfully participate in development efforts that directly benefit them,” said Sendeza.
Established in April 2023 and formally launched in November 2024 alongside the National Community Development Policy (2024–2030), the CDM initiative promotes a spirit of self-reliance in line with Malawi’s Vision 2063, particularly under the Human Capital Development and Mindset Change enabler.
Sendeza highlighted the worrying decline of community ownership and participation in development work over the years.
“The self-help spirit has declined substantially with the rise of the dependency syndrome. People now wait for money or aid before taking part in projects like road maintenance, school construction, or sanitation,” she noted.
She further pointed out that uncoordinated efforts by stakeholders have confused communities and led to inefficient use of resources.
“Some organizations entice communities with incentives, while others rely on voluntary participation. This inconsistency hampers sustainability,” she said.
The CDM initiative seeks to reverse this trend by fostering coordination among stakeholders and encouraging communities to contribute resources — including labor, materials, and funds — toward local projects. Over 4,600 projects have been completed since the pilot phase began in 2021, including school blocks, bridges, health shelters, and sanitation facilities.
In the upcoming 2025–2026 fiscal year, communities across the country have already planned more than 4,500 projects.
“This proves that the self-help spirit is being adopted,” said Sendeza.
To ensure the success of CDM, the government has empowered the Ministry to work with other key sectors including the Ministry of Information, Civic Education and Digitalization, and the Ministry of Local Government. Together, they will spearhead awareness campaigns, establish partnerships with NGOs and development partners, and enforce quality and standards in implementation.
“This is a reform area where no one is left behind,” declared Sendeza. “The Community Development Month is helping us rediscover and harness the lost glory of self-help by empowering communities to take charge of their development.”
She concluded with a strong call to action: “I therefore call upon all stakeholders to join hands. Let us entrench the spirit of self-help and achieve the noble goals of Malawi 2063.”
Government making strides to provide potable water
By Leonard Masauli
Lilongwe, April 29, Mana: The Ministry of Water and Sanitation says government is making significant progress to ensure access to safe, clean, and potable water for all communities in Malawi, despite facing financing challenges in the sector.
This was highlighted during the 15th Joint Sector Review Workshop held from April 29 to 30, 2025, at the Bingu International Conference Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe. During the event, the Ministry also launched the National Water Policy (2025) and the Ministry of Water and Sanitation Strategic Plan (2025–2030).
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister of Water and Sanitation, Abida Mia said that although the sector continues to experience funding limitations, the government is committed to improving access to potable and accessible water across the country.
Mia noted that the government is currently constructing multipurpose dams in various parts of Malawi to enhance water security.
“We are currently constructing multipurpose dams across the country to enhance water security. These dams will provide water not only for domestic use, but agricultural purposes, fisheries, energy production as well as tourism.
“In the face of climate change where the frequent intensity of floods and droughts have increased, we aim to draw climate resilience from these dams. As WASH sector, we are also mandated to rehabilitate gravity water supply schemes across the country to enable people to have access to clean and safe water,” said Mia.
Representative of Malawi’s donor partners, Johannes Wedenig, emphasized the need for continued collaboration to ensure the availability of safe and accessible water in communities, despite financial constraints affecting the sector.
“We are here not just to reflect but to work together to improve the situation of water, sanitation and hygiene in Malawi, with concerted efforts. Safe water is essential to life itself, and proper sanitation and hygiene prevent spread of diseases and ensures human dignity. Without these essential services, the most basic needs of life are unmet.
“However, this is a time for urgency, ambition and accountability. We are realistic about the challenges, fiscal constraints are tight, global aid is shifting, and climate change risks are growing. But we are equally confident in Malawi's potential in its leadership and its people and the solutions within reach,” said Wedenig.
He added that donors are encouraged by the projected stability of the WASH budget for 2025/2026 but stressed the need for Malawi to strengthen its financial resilience, as currently 80 percent of the total WASH budget is sourced externally.
Board Chairperson for the Water and Environment Sanitation Network (WESNET), Panganani Njolomole, applauded the government for its efforts in constructing dams across the country, saying this will significantly improve access to water.
The review meeting is being held under the theme: “Fostering Resilient WASH Infrastructure Investments Amidst Financing Challenges.”
Emmie Deebo lights up Neno with homecoming concert
By Wellington Sibale
Neno, April 29, Mana: Afro pop music sensation Emmie Deebo returned to her roots in Neno over the weekend when she hosted a free homecoming concert under the theme: Giving back to my community.
The 2024 MBC Entertainers of the Year award winner for secular female artist category, real name Emily Zintambila, lit up Chikonde ground with a powerful live performance that not only thrilled fans but also inspired young people to chase their dreams.
Deebo delivered a vibrant set list that included fan favourites like Shelibanana, Theka, Chi mood, Kale, Akumbutseni, Befu, and Fragile, among others, as she kept the crowd energised and engaged throughout the show.
The artist said the concert was not only about entertainment, adding that it had a deeper purpose.
“It was about giving hope, sharing inspiration and reminding the youth of Neno that greatness can come from right here.” Deebo said.
She encouraged the youth to value their talents with confidence, work hard and never give up, saying persistence and assertiveness are key to success.
“If any youth knows that he or she has talent, they must put in the effort. The beginning is always tough and people might underrate you, but if you stay focused, everything is possible,” she advised.
Deebo also reminded the youth that resilience is a critical part of any journey, especially in fine and performing art like music.
Her message was echoed by fellow performer and close friend, Lady Aika, real name Malaika Chikalimba, a reggae dancehall artist and student at the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
“There are a lot of challenges when one is starting, especially for girls in music. But if one believes in the dream and stay focused, nothing can easily distract you,” said Lady Aika.
Elizabeth Banda, a girl who patronised Deebo’s music show, hailed the event as a great inspiration.
“We don't get shows like this. We had a lot of fun, inspired and the show brought us all together,” she said.
The music show left a lasting impression among music lovers in Neno, many of whom went home impressed and motivated.
Other artists that lit up the show included Neno based Aubi, Rhino dem, Cozkeed, Sharpkid, Jozy B, Themba P, Nyavson, and Coprah.
Chibiso Motors donates reflective jackets to Area 12 Police Unit
By Mwai Kumanda
Lilongwe, April 29, Mana; Chibiso Motors has donated 40 reflective jackets to Area 12 Police Unit which is under Lingadzi Police Station.
Receiving the donation on Tuesday, Officer In-Charge Superintendent Anastasia Botomani said the donation has come at the right time as it will support their operations by providing safety to officers working more especially at night.
"The reflective jackets will greatly enhance the safety and visibility of our officers during day and night time patrols or low-light operations,’’ she said.
In his remarks, the representative for Chibiso Motors, Ishmael Makawa, described the gesture as an evidence to the company's commitment to supporting the community and enhancing security in the area.
“By providing the police unit with essential equipment, Chibiso Motors is demonstrating its dedication to the well-being and safety of both the officers and the community they serve," he said.
Bonongwe wins Kasungu West primaries
By Wanangwa Tembo
Kasungu, April 29, Mana: Incumbent Member of Parliament for Kasungu West, Jairos Bonongwe, has been declared winner in the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) parliamentary primary elections for the constituency.
During the elections took place on Tuesday at Kamphulu in the area of Senior Chief Njombwa, Bonongwe amassed 973 votes to see off seven other contestants in polls decided by 1080 delegates.
Denis Mseu came a distant second with 124 votes, trailed by Bobbex Chinthu who polled 46 ballots.
The remaining ballots were shared by Priscilla Chimphimda who got 4, Sailesi Gulule 8, Margret Lukwa 22, George Alexander who earned 9 and Brian Mwale 43 votes.
In the polls for councillors, Kasungu District Council chairperson Mwambiraso Mbedza has claimed victory in Lifupa Ward while Gift Ntolola will represent the party in Lisasadzi Ward.
Malawi to host AfricaWide Agricultural Extension Week
By Pempho Kantayeni
Lilongwe, April 29, Mana: Minister of Agriculture Sam Kawale has announced that Malawi will, for the first time, host the 7th Africa Wide Extension Week (AAEW) from 12 May to 18 May 2025 in Lilongwe.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lilongwe, Kawale said the AAEW will bring together key players in agriculture related sectors from across the continent to rethink as well as to reshape the agriculture extension services.
“It is a chance to share knowledge, forge partnerships, and explore innovations that can transform farming in Africa; by working together, we can improve access to new technologies, better farming methods and market opportunities, helping farmers thrive as well as grow the nation,” he said.
Malawi Government, in partnership with the African Forum for Agricultural and Advisory Services (AFAAS) and Malawi Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (MAFAAS), has organized the event under the theme ‘Rebranding Extension for Enhanced Public/Private Sector driven Commercialization, Industrialization, and Inclusive Food Systems’.
The event will focus on strengthening policies and institutions for better extension services, improving access to high quality training and tools for farmers, using digital technology to revolutionize agriculture and harnessing innovation and research for resilient farming and markets.
Government is encouraging farmers, businesses and development partners to register for the event, which will feature keynote speeches, interactive panel discussions, and exhibitions, showcasing latest innovations and success stories.
Mana engages its reporters in CPD sessions
By Prisca Promise Mashushu
Lilongwe, April 29, Mana: The Malawi News Agency (Mana) on Tuesday engaged its reporters in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) sessions at the institution’s headquarters in Lilongwe with an aim to sharpen the reporters’ writing skills.
Mana Deputy Managing Editor Chikondi Chimala said the learning and development process is important to the agency's editors and reporters, as it will help them to be familiar with the news agency’s house style when writing and editing news stories.
“The institution decided to hold the CPD training in order to help editors and reporters to be familiar with different ethics and principles that are used by journalists as one way of boosting their capabilities and skills.
“The trainings will be conducted in different phases and as a media house that is of national interest, we thought it wise to organize these trainings so that our reporters should be able to write good stories that engage readers on what is occurring in the country,” he said.
One of the reporters who attended the exercise, Pempho Kantayeni, commended the institution for organizing the training, saying it is important in improving writing skills.
The Malawi News Agency, which was established in 1966, continues to provide the most trustworthy news stories in the country.
Government gazettes 350 traditional leaders in Nkhata Bay
By Chisomo Kambandanga
Nkhata Bay, April 29, Mana: District Commissioner for Nkhata Bay, Rodgers Newa, has said government, through Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture, has gazetted 350 traditional leaders in the district, who will immediately start receiving honoraria.
Newa was speaking Monday during a full council meeting, where council members deliberated on various reports from the council’s service committees.
According to Newa, the traditional leaders include 300 village heads and 50 group village heads, bringing the total number of gazetted chiefs in Nkhata Bay to 1,044 from 694.
"This entails that the leaders’ positions have been confirmed and provided with the official status. We expect that this development will motivate them in carrying out their roles in contributing to the country's development," said Newa.
In his remarks, Traditional Authority Fukamalaza commended government for placing the leaders on honoraria which he said is a step towards strengthening traditional leadership structures and promoting community development.
"I am excited because 12 of the newly gazetted leaders are from my area, out of which three are group village heads,” said Fukamalaza.
Mzuzu City Council calls for full devolution of DoDMA to local authorities
By George Bulombola
Mzuzu, April 29, Mana: Mzuzu City Council Chief Executive Officer Gomezgani Nyasulu has appealed to government to fully devolve Department of Disaster and Management Affairs (DoDMA) to local authorities.
Nyasulu was speaking Monday when DoDMA briefed members of Mzuzu City Executive Committee on Risk Informed Development Resilience Project which is expected to be implemented in some local authorities from 2025 to 2028.
He said the decentralized approach to Disaster Risk Management (DRM) to local authorities will empower the authorities in implementing their mandate in DRM related programmes.
“It will be efficient and cost effective to handle DRM issues if the department devolves some of its functions, including finances and personnel, to local authorities which are the nearest points of call on DRM related issues,” said Nyasulu.
He said, currently, the DRM desk officers are only provided with finances as other recurrent transactions without resources for operations.
The chief executive then commended DoDMA for the project which he said will go a long way in enhancing collaboration among various stakeholders, including local communities, in DRM.
“Knowledge gap in understanding risks and hazards is a major factor among others which blind communities from realizing potential risks in their disaster prone settlement areas.
“Most people get to know risks or hazards upon being hit by disasters, hence the project will be a viable intervention in addressing such challenges,” he said.
Director responsible for response at DoDMA, Moses Chimphepo, said that the project, which is financed by United Nations Development Programme enhance capacity building of various stakeholders and structures in DRM, among others.
“We would like communities to be knowledgeable of potential risks in the settlement areas, so that they develop resilience mechanism to shocks of disasters and how they can protect themselves from disasters.
“This project will enhance capacity and resilience in managing disaster risks at all levels. Responding to disasters is more expensive than empowering communities to understand potential hazards in their areas and how they can either avoid being affected by the same or reduce impact on their livelihoods,” said Chimphepo.
He then advised local authorities to be mainstreaming DRM activities in their development plans for them to effectively carry out disaster related activities besides complementing the project’s objectives.
The project targets Mzuzu City, Salima, Nkhotakota, Dedza and Zomba, as some of the disaster prone areas.
Nkhata Bay farmers advised against misusing micro-irrigation loan inputs
By Chisomo Kambandanga
Nkhata Bay, April 29, Mana: The Mzuzu Agricultural Development Division (ADD) Programmes Manager Anderson Chikomola has advised farmers under Chombe Cooperative in Nkhata Bay not to sell or misuse micro-irrigation loan inputs.
Chikomola said this on Monday at Luwambaza Primary School ground in the area of Senior Chief Timbiri in Nkhata Bay during the launch of the 2025 Micro Irrigation Loan programme in the district by the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF).
According to Chikomola, the programme aims to provide an opportunity to farmers who are in groups to access agriculture inputs, to supplement rain fed agriculture with winter cropping to increase crop yield and boost production.
"Today, we have witnessed 58 farmers from Chombe cooperative accessing 116 bags of fertilizers weighing 50 kilograms each and 302 kilograms of maize seed on loan worth K17.1 million which is so encouraging.
"I urge them to use these inputs wisely and not sell or misuse them, so we can achieve the program's goal of alleviating hunger in the country through winter cropping," he said.
He added that the programme aligns well with government's agenda of promoting climate-smart agriculture and building resilience in agriculture production to mitigate challenges associated with rain-fed agriculture.
NEEF Zonal Manager for Mzuzu, Amos Phiri, expressed optimism that the farmers will pay back the loan based on last years’ experience, when 96 percent of the K100 million loan farmers received in the district was repaid.
"In this programme, we are targeting farmers who have at least one acre of land to be in in groups of 50 to 100. So far, we have managed to mobilize about 17 groups who are yet to receive their inputs, with hope to reach out to more," he added.
District Commissioner for Nkhata Bay, Rodgers Newa, commended the programme's timing, noting that farmers are currently harvesting their rain-fed crops, which makes it an ideal time to embark on irrigation farming.
He therefore urged NEEF to extend its reach to all cooperatives in the district, emphasizing that this would significantly contribute to achieving food security in the country.
Chairperson for Chombe Cooperative, Leftan Chituzu, expressed gratitude to the government for providing the loan opportunity through NEEF.
"As a group, we have put in place strategies to ensure timely repayment of the loan. Our goal is to qualify for another loan, specifically for machinery, and we are committed to making it happen," he added.
Through the micro-irrigation loan programme, NEEF aims to reach 200,000 farmers across the country.
