The Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe has intensified a campaign to get a meaningful participation of women in the forthcoming General Elections in September 2025.
Speaking at Tembwe Trading Centre after conducting a whistle-stop tour in Mchinji Southwest Constituency on Sunday, the CCJP District Coordinator, Alexius Nasoni said Malawi needs more women representation at the parliamentary and local government levels for the nation to achieve meaningful development.
Nasoni therefore challenged political parties and traditional leaders to remove barriers that could hinder women participation in elections.
Nasoni drumming up support for women at Tembwe Trading Centre in Mchinji–Photo by Watipaso Mzungu
“Why do we need more women involved in all aspects of the political process? Women’s political participation results in tangible gains for democracy, including greater responsiveness to citizen needs, increased cooperation across party and ethnic lines, and a more sustainable future,” he said.
CCJP organized the tour with with financial support from United the Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the “Enhancing the Participation of Women in the 2025 Malawi General Elections” Project.
According to Nasoni, greater women’s participation in politics would help advance gender equality.
CCJP officials posing for a photo with traditional and community leaders at Tembwe Trading Centre after the whistle-stop tour
He said there is also strong evidence that as more women are elected to office, there is a corollary increase in policy making that emphasizes quality of life and reflects the priorities of families, women, and the nation at large.
“It’s very unfortunate that Mchinji is one of the districts that produced a negligible number of female lawmakers and councilors. Let us change our mindset towards women leadership. We have female chiefs in this district and they have demonstrated strong leadership; the same would be true for female MPs and councilors. So let us give women all the support in elections,” pleaded Nasoni.
Principal Group Village Head Tembwe described the campaign as timely, stressing that it will help in clearing myths about female leadership in the Chewa and Ngoni-dominated areas.
In an interview after the tour, the aspiring ward councilor for Kalumbe Ward, Charity Chatipwa, appealed for material and financial support, saying this is one of hindrances to women’s participation in elections.
The Association of Consecrated Women in Eastern and Central Africa (ACWECA) on Monday set off celebrations of its golden jubilee with a renewed hope that God will transform lives of people who are dedicated to consecrated life.
Speaking at the opening of the General Assembly at the Civo Stadium in Lilongwe, ACWECA president Sister Rosalia Sakayambo cited the breakdown of families as one of the challenges threatening formations in the Roman Catholic Church.
Sakayambo said the assembly will therefore seek to identify solutions to the challenge.
“When the association started, we had needs that have significantly changed reaching this far. So that is why in these few days, we will have to sit down and discuss,” she said.
“We will even have to ask ourselves as to where we are being called to in the next 3 years and in the next 15 years. We will even discuss what the church wants from us,” she explained adding that answers to the questions will bring the much touted transformation.
Some of the Sisters captured at the mass service at the Civo Stadium in Lilongwe
She stressed on broken families, suicide and improper use of media as some of the key issues that are putting people in worrisome situations nowadays.
In his remarks, president for Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) and Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, His Grace Desmond Tambala, called on consecrated women to find real answers to the questions that will cover every individual regardless of his or her status.
“As a church, we are at home with digital world. Looking at it at face value, it is a gift that is being given by God. It has many advantages but the improper usage is tarnishing it,” he stated.
He bemoaned the tendency of using the media in spreading harmful practices stressing this is posing threats on people’s lives among others.
“This is not what we are intending. This is not what the Catholic Church is looking for whereby the media is used to target people,” he said.
The newly-elected Publicity Secretary for the governing Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Dr Jessie Kabwila, has today addressed her first media briefing since she was elected to the position a week ago.
The press briefing took place at the MCP Headquarters where journalists from a number of media houses attended.
The aim of the briefing was to update the nation on the outcomes of the elective conference.
Kabwira during the press briefing
In her speech, Kabwila said President Dr Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera remains the most suitable candidate for president beyond the 2025 General Elections.
She said President Chakwera has demonstrated that he has the interest of Malawians at heart; hence, he is distributing development projects across the board without considering one’s political or regional affiliation.
Kabwila assured journalists that Chakwera will win the next year’s presidential election.
She appealed to Malawians to rally behind the president so that he continues to steer the development of this country to the highest.
President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera and his administration have received rare praise from persons with albinism in Malawi for tightening their security.
In a video clip that has gone viral on the social media, a person with albinism, whilst drinking and dancing at an undisclosed nightclub, hails President Chakwera for ensuring that persons with albinism are provided with maximum security so that they are able to express themselves and participate in social and economic activities taking place their communities.
The dreadlocked man adds that in the clip that under the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), persons with albinism are no longer hunted, attacked and killed as it was the case during the previous regime.
“Thank you to the MCP party because it has helped us a lot. My fellow albinos, we are not being killed. And we are thankful that we are not being killed because of MCP. During the time of another party, we were being killed. Today, I will drink beer until 12:30 AM,” he says.
He further wishes MCP victory in the 2025 General Elections, stressing that the party’s success will guarantee their security and safety in Malawi.
Malawi President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera was on Thursday conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in International Cooperation for Development by the Joaquim Chissano University in Mozambique.
The awarding of the degree attracted a deafening joyous sounds of ululation, cheering and hand-clapping as Chakwera was being swathed in an sky-blue and black academic gown inside the spacious venue.
Chakwera has been bestowed the coveted honour at the Joaquim Chissano International Conference Centre in Maputo, marking a climax of the President’s two-day State Visit which ends today.
President Chakwera receiving the honorary degree
Sources from the State House of Malawi say President Chakwera, in his acceptance speech, expressed gratitude for the honour in recognition of his untiring efforts to bolster international cooperation within the region and beyond.
“I thank you for this distinguished honour for me and the people of Malawi,” he said.
Following his visit to Mozambique, President Chakwera is this afternoon proceeding to Harare, Zimbabwe for the 44th ordinary summit of the Southern Africa Development Cooperation (SADC) Heads of State and Governments, scheduled for 17th August 2024.
Chibuku Products Limited, a leading opaque beer manufacturer, proudly today made generous donation of 10 sewing machines worth MK3.5 million to Tikonze Apapa Organization for the deaf students.
The initiative aims to empower deaf students by providing them with valuable skills that can enhance their livelihoods and foster independence.
The donation ceremony took place at the Tikonze Apapa Organizations headquarters, where the Managing Director of Chibuku Products Limited, Gerald Bowler, emphasized the company’s commitment to social responsibility and community development.
“At Chibuku, we believe in giving back to the communities we serve. Today’s donation is not just about providing sewing machines; it’s about equipping these talented individuals with the tools they need to thrive in life,” Bowler stated.
The handing over of the sewing machine
The sewing machines will enable students to engage in practical training, learn tailoring skills, and explore potential entrepreneurial avenues.
This initiative will not only enhance their skill sets but also boost their confidence and self-esteem.
Bowler further reiterated the importance of inclusivity, stating, “It is crucial that we create an environment where people with disabilities have the same opportunities as anyone else. We hope this donation will inspire a sense of achievement and encourage these students to follow their dreams, regardless of the challenges they may face.”
The Tikonze Apapa Organisation, which has been a beacon of hope for deaf students in the region, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the generous gift.
Katiana Lafrance, the Executive Director of Tikonze Apapa, remarked, “This donation is a significant step towards creating more opportunities for our students. We are incredibly thankful to Chibuku Products Limited for their support, and we look forward to seeing our students excel with their new skills.”
The collaboration between Chibuku Products Limited and Tikonze Apapa Organisation is a testament to the power of corporate social responsibility and community engagement.
Together, they are working towards creating a brighter future for deaf students, empowering them to achieve their full potential.
Malawi’s revered governance and human rights advocate Undule Mwakasungula has commended the governing Malawi Congress Party (MCP) demonstrating commitment to democratic principles, unity, and the empowerment of all Malawians by holding an all-inclusive and peaceful convention.
Mwakasungula said in a statement issued on Monday evening that the MCP convention was not just a routine political gathering, but a remarkable display of democracy in action.
He said the peaceful nature of the convention stands as a point to the party’s dedication to maintaining harmony and order within its ranks.
“Delegates from all corners gathered to participate in the democratic process, ensuring that every voice was heard and every vote counted. The smooth and peaceful conduct of the event, free from incidents of violence or disorder, speaks volumes about the maturity and discipline of MCP members and their shared vision for the future,” reads the statement in part.
Jiving-Photo Arkangel Tembo,Mana
According to Mwakasungula, one of the most outstanding aspects of this convention was the high calibre and diverse backgrounds of the contestants vying for various positions.
He observed that the MCP convention attracted some of the most competent, experienced, and passionate individuals, all eager to contribute to the party’s leadership.
He said this unique blend of candidates is a reflection of the party’s commitment to inclusivity and its recognition of the diverse talents within its ranks.
“The wide array of contestants, each bringing their unique perspectives and strengths, ensured that the selection process was not just competitive but also enriching for the party. It is this diversity that continues to strengthen the MCP, making it a dynamic political entity capable of addressing the complex challenges facing the country.
“As in any election, there are winners and those who do not succeed in their bids. However, what was truly remarkable about the MCP convention was the grace and loyalty exhibited by those who did not win. The peaceful acceptance of the results by all contestants, coupled with their continued loyalty to the party, is a quality that must be recognized and applauded. These individuals, despite not securing the positions they contested for, have demonstrated an unyielding commitment to the party’s cause. Their immediate show of support for the winning candidates exemplifies the spirit of unity and collective purpose that defines the MCP. This behaviour should serve as a model for all political actors in Malawi and beyond, emphasizing that the true essence of democracy lies in respect for the electoral process and the will of the people,” says Mwakasungula in the statement.
He further stated that the election of a woman as the First Deputy President marks continued steps in the MCP’s commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women.
Female delegates during the convention
The human rights advocate says this bold move is an indication of the party’s trust in women’s ability to lead at the highest political levels. It sends a powerful message not only to the members of the MCP but to the entire nation. MCP must be applauded for this progressive step. It therefore the nation’s hope that this will inspire more women to engage in politics and aspire to leadership positions, knowing that their capabilities are recognized and valued.
“A notable aspect of this convention was the leadership and dedication demonstrated by President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera. His full attendance, day and night throughout the convention, and his guidance during the proceedings, exemplify the servant leadership and that inspired many Malawians. President Chakwera’s commitment to being present and actively engaged in the convention was sign of his dedication to the party and the nation. His leadership not only provided direction but also reinforced the importance of unity, discipline, and collective responsibility within the MCP. This kind of leadership is what is needed for our country,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mwakasungula has urged all the political parties in Malawi to emulate the democracy and maturity MCP has demonstrated in its convention.
“As other political parties prepare to hold their conventions, there are valuable lessons to be learned from the MCP’s convention. No argument MCP has set a foundation for how conventions should be conducted. The peaceful and organized nature, the inclusivity of candidates, and the graciousness of those who did not win are all elements that should be emulated. These aspects contribute to the overall stability and unity of the party, which are important for the success of any political organization. Other parties must take note of these lessons as they plan their conventions, ensuring that they too uphold the principles of democracy, respect, and unity,” he concluded.
A grouping of concerned Malawians have petitioned President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera demanding that he fires Minister of Homeland Security, Ken Zikhale Ng’oma, over incompetence.
The demand has been made through what the concerned citizens have termed “#ZATIKWANA Campaign”.
ZATIKWANA Campaign is a frontline and bold youth campaign against corruption and poor governance in Malawi and it is designed to rally the people of Malawi, particularly the youth, in a unified effort to combat corruption, impunity, and poor public services, thereby enhancing governance quality and citizen welfare.
On Tuesday morning, executive members of the campaign addressed journalists in Lilongwe where they outlined their grievances against Minister Zikhale Ng’oma.
National Vice Chairperson, Memory Sebastian, said since he was appointed to the ministerial position, the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services has been plagued by long-running inefficiencies.
Sebastian stated that these inefficiencies have caused immense suffering for countless Malawians, particularly women and youth.
“For far too long, the Immigration Department has failed to fulfill its fundamental duty of providing timely and efficient passport services. Hundreds of Malawians are forced to endure the indignity of spending nights outside the Immigration Department’s offices, desperately waiting for their passports to be issued. This dire situation is unacceptable and must be addressed with immediate action.
“The inefficiencies within the Immigration Department have not only caused unnecessary hardships but have also impeded the ability of our citizens to travel for work, education, medical treatment, and other essential purposes. Women and youth, who are already among the most vulnerable groups in our society, bear the brunt of this negligence. Their dreams and aspirations are being shattered due to the incompetence and lack of accountability within the Ministry of Homeland Security,” she said.
ZATIKWANA National Vice Chairperson, Memory Sebastian
Sebastian further demanded that President Chakwera should expedite the appointment of a competent and accountable Director General to oversee the Immigration Department.
She recommended that the new Director General must prioritize the needs of the citizens and ensure that the Immigration Department operates efficiently and effectively.
“We demand immediate and comprehensive reforms within the Immigration Department to address the systemic issues causing delays and inefficiencies. This includes combating corruption, increasing staff, improving processes, and implementing technology to streamline operations. We call for greater accountability and transparency within the Ministry of Homeland Security. Regular reports on the progress of reforms and the status of passport issuance must be made available to the public,” she said.
There was no immediate comment from Minister Zikhale Ng’oma.
Meanwhile, the ZATIKWANA Campaigners have disclosed that about 7, 000 people have been engaged with this petition online by commenting and adding their voices, and 250 people have signed the online petition.
The Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe says it is closely monitoring reports that men are issuing threats to female aspirants in Nkhotakota.
At a political leaders’ engagement meeting in Nkhotakota on Friday last week, a Malawi Congress Party (MCP) aspiring Member of Parliament for Nkhotakota North Constituency, Dorothy Chikonje, complained that she is being subjected to ridicule and insults from male aspirants.
Chikonje said since she expressed her interest to contest, men have been calling her names.
“I have suffered the worst insults and abusive words from male aspirants and their supporters. In their wisdom, I have no moral high ground to contest against men unless I am a prostitute,” she said.
CCJP Acting Archdiocesan Secretary Fletcher Mbewe said insults, intimidation and violence against women have no place in a democratic setup like that of Malawi.
Chikonje: I am determined to contest and win in Nkhotakota North Constituency
He said his organization will devise mechanisms for curbing violence against women in elections. He also called upon representatives of all political parties in Malawi to ensure that women are accorded the opportunity to access their right to participate fully and equally in politics and public life.
“It is sad that while women’s participation in political activities has steadily grown over the last few years, the frequency and degree of violent responses to their presence in politics is also increasing. Women continue to face multiple challenges in taking up positions in political and public life despite gains in women’s political activity,” he said.
“I wish to implore all the political parties in Malawi, security agencies, media and civic society to collaborate in condemning this abusive behavior against female aspirants. Let this be a responsibility of all of us to call out and condemn the casual use of aggression and threat of physical violence to silence women’s voices in politics,” said Mbewe.
CCJP is implementing the “Enhancing the Participation of Women in the 2025 Malawi General Elections” Project with financial support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Currently, out of the 193 legislators in the Malawi Parliament, only 40 are women.
Concerned with declining yields resulting in endemic food insecurity and hunger among the majority of Malawi’s households, the Catholic Development Commission in Malawi (CADECOM) has moved in to build the capacity of the farmers so that they are able to adapt and become or remain self-reliant.
With financial support from Caritas Australia, CADECOM is training its field facilitators in the FSS model as a measure for addressing the problem of shortage of extension workers facing the country.
Speaking in an interview recently, CADECOM Assistant Programmes Coordinator, Vincent Tenthani, observed that inadequacy of extension workers is one of the factors affecting agricultural production in Malawi.
Tenthani said the facilitators are therefore expected to assist the farmers to get knowledge on agricultural production, share technical advice and information with farmers that will help them to improve their farm management skills.
“That’s why we are equipping our field facilitators with knowledge and skills on how best they can utilize the FFS model to build the capacity of farmers. We expect that the facilitators will now be able to help the farmers to identify problems affecting their crops,” he said.
Soko addressing CADECOM field facilitators after a three-week training in Salima–Photo by Watipaso Mzungu
Tenthani added that through rigorous research and treatment, CADECOM expects that the facilitators will come up with solutions to the problems identified and then they will improve their livelihoods through the growing of crops and livestock production.
The initiative is receiving financial support from support from Caritas Australia and will run up to 2028.
According to Tenthani, A+ Successor Project is being implemented in the Archdiocese of Blantyre and Dioceses of Karonga and Mzuzu with an aim of improving the food and nutritional security situation in over 90 percent of the population in the target communities by the end of 2028.
He said the project also aims to improve the cash income and asset base in over 90 percent of the population in the target communities.
In his remarks at the end of a three-week training in Salima last Friday, the Director of Agriculture in the Ministry of Agriculture, Pearson Jasi Soko, hailed FFS as a critical tool in addressing the shortage of agriculture extension workers in Malawi.
Soko said the Malawi Government is promoting FFS as a tool for achieving sustainable food, agriculture and rural development, which are at the heart of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
“FFS brings multidisciplinary stakeholders, researchers, extension workers, specialists, farmers themselves, farmer organizations in a number of players, as trainers, as well as stakeholders are involved in implementation of farmer field school for a number of reasons. Number one, it is not just for adoption, but also trains farmers to be experts in agriculture,” he said.
Soko further stated that FFS have proven to be effective in identifying solutions to the challenges that farmers face while at the same time building their capacity.
He therefore thanked CADECOM for organizing the training, stressing that it will go a long way in addressing the problem of shortage of extension workers in the country.
“We are very excited. We are very excited because you may recall that last year, Malawi hosted a global forum for Farmer Field Schools where the Deputy Director General of FAO came and our own minister was in attendance. We had a three-day global forum for farmers. The message we sent that time was that we needed to work with other players, and other stakeholders and CADECOM has come in to respond to what we have been saying that farmer field school is not just a government approach, it is a multi-sectoral approach,” stressed Soko.
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