Nthanda Times

Blessings Tambala

  • CCJP drills players in the gender sector on gender-related laws as GBV cases surge

    Malawi continues to register a significant rise in the number of gender-based violence (GBV) despite combined efforts between the government non-governmental organizations to end the vice.

    On Friday last week, Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) on Friday assembled gender rights activists in Mponela, Dowa, for a day-long regroup and reflection meeting on gender-related laws.

    Zimba: There are so many gaps in our gender-related laws--Photo by Watiapso Mzungu
    Zimba: There are so many gaps in our gender-related laws–Photo by Watiapso Mzungu

    The training was funded by the NCA-DCA Malawi Country Programme through a project titled “Enhancing Effective Protection and Promotion of Rights of Women and Girls from Gender Violence through Improved Justice Delivery, Self-advocacy, and Self-activism”.

    The reflection meeting attracted representatives from government ministries, department and agencies (MDAs), the police and non-governmental organizations, including National Organisation of Nurses and Midwives of Malawi Nurses (NONM), the Evangelical Association of Malawi (EAM), the Association of Persons with Albinism (APAM), the Catholic Women Association (CWA), the police, Oxfam Malawi, Gender and Justice Unit (GJU) and youth-led organisations.

    CCJP Project Officer responsible for gender, Stella Zimba, said the meeting was convened to create an informed and strategic framework for addressing gender-based violence GBV through reflective dialogue and tailored institutional action plans, ultimately fostering a safer and more equitable environment.

    Francis Chitenje of the Minister of Gender facilitating the regroup and reflection meeting convened by CCJP–Watipsao Mzungu

    Zimba said her organization has observed that despite the country boasting of some of the most progressive and punitive laws that would help in eliminating the vice, there are still gaps in their implementation.

    “There are a lot of gaps in gender-related laws. One of those gaps is that majority of the women whom these laws intend to protect, are not aware of them. Again, we have observed that the laws we have as a country are biased towards women. For instance, when you talk about deceased estate, the laws favour women while ignoring the rights of men,” she narrated.

    Deputy National Secretary for the Association of Persons with Albinism in Malawi (APAM), Virginia Chimodzi, described the regroup and reflection meeting as timely, stressing that the knowledge she got from it will enhance their skills and knowledge about gender-related laws.

    Chimodzi assured the meeting that the knowledge they gained would be passed on to APAM members across the country.

  • Lilongwe resident risks MK200m lawsuit for defaming Minister Zikhale Ng’oma

    Alinafe Ziggy Chidwala, a resident of the Lilongwe City, risks being sued for MK200 million damages for defaming the Minister of Homeland Security, Dr. Ken Zikhale Ng’oma, on social media.

    Ng’oma has since written Chidwala, through private practice lawyer Oscar Taula, demanding that the resident must cease and desist from posting defamatory statements about him.

    Taulo confirmed writing the demand letter, stating that his client has learned that the socialite has engaged in spreading false, destructive, and defamatory rumors about him.

    Minister Zikhale Ng’oma is demanding that Alinafe Ziggy Chidwala should cease and desist from posting fake stories about him

    Quoting section 200 of Penal code Cap 7:01 of Laws of Malawi, the lawyer said it is unlawful to engage in defamation of another’s character and reputation.

    “Chidwala’s defamatory statements involved making false claims that our client had commenced a court action against you in respect of a land that you are sharing boundary with him and that he has already started building a fence on the same land while the case is still in court. It is our client’s story that he has never taken any court action against you or anyone else in Malawi and he does not own any piece of land in your area,” reads a demand letter in part.

    “Accordingly, we demand that you (a) immediately cease and desist your unlawful defamation of our Client and further we demand you to make a public apology of your defamatory statement against our Client within 24 hours in all social media platform that you have been using to damage our Client’s character and reputation. Kindly be advised that we are under legal instructions to seek available legal remedies including seeking injunctive relief and monetary damages of sum of MK 200 million if you fail to comply with our demand within 24 hours,” concludes Taulo.

    Chidwala could not be immediately contacted for a comment.

  • Analysts describe Usi’s appointment as a unifying factor for Tonse Alliance government

    Governance and political commentators Undule Mwakasungula, Ernest Thindwa and George Chaima have hailed President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera for appointing Dr. Michael Bizwick Usi as the new Vice President replacing the late Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima who died in a tragic plane crash on June 10, 2024.

    In separate interviews with Zodiak Broadcasting Station (ZBS) a few minutes after Usi’s appointment was announced, Mwakasungula, Thindwa, who is also lecturer of political science at the University of Malawi (UNIMA), and Chaima, a governance commentator, said Usi’s appointment will help in cementing the relationship among partners in the Tonse Alliance government.

    Dr. Michael Bizwick Usi is set to be sworn in as Malawi's new Vice President at 3pm today
    Dr. Michael Bizwick Usi is set to be sworn in as Malawi’s new Vice President at 3pm today

    Prior to the new VP appointment, Thindwa, an expert in electoral and identity politics, noted that the choice of the VP would not be the easiest of political decisions by Presidewnt Chakwera as it would likely come under heavy public scrutiny.

    He, however, asked the President consider to appoint someone from the UTM Party to ensure continuity.

    “Any appointment other than from UTM Party will be extremely challenging to politically justify to the extent that the mandate to govern was won through a joint electoral ticket,” said Thindwa then.

    And reacting to the Usi’s appointment on Thursday evening, Thindwa and Chaima said there was no any other better choice President Chakwera could have made than Usi.

    They commended Chakwera for heeding the call.

    “Usi was a natural choice because even the late Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima chose him to be his running mate in the 2019 tripartite elections,” said Thindwa.

    On his part, Governance and Human Rights Advocate Undule Mwakasungula said Usi’s appointment demonstrates President Chakwera’s commitment to the rule of law and the principles of our democratic governance as it was carried out within the constitutional period of seven days.

    Mwakasungula therefore commended the President for this decisive and timely action, ensuring that our nation continues to operate with stability and adherence to constitutional mandates.

    “The new Vice President Rt Hon Dr Michael Bizwick Usi steps into office at a very trying time, bearing the weight of great expectations from the Malawians. This appointment is not merely a ceremonial transition but a call to address the pressing needs and aspirations of our citizens. The tasks ahead are formidable and will require a blend of visionary leadership, dedication, and a deep understanding of the challenges that face our nation,” he said.

    Mwakasungula stated that the new Vice President must be tasked with facilitating national healing, unity, and peace following the tragic passing of the late Vice President Right Hon. Dr. Saulos Chilima.

    He observed that the late Vice President was a figure of unity and progress, whose contributions to national development and governance will always be remembered for generations.

    “His legacy is a mark to his commitment to the well-being of Malawi and Malawians.  It is now upon the incumbent the new Vice President to carry forward this legacy, in promoting an environment of reconciliation and solidarity. In addition to promoting national unity, the new Vice President must address the economic and social challenges that continue to affect our country. Malawians are looking for a strong Vice President who can work hand in hand with the President to drive the country towards economic recovery and progress,” he said.

    Meanwhile, Usi is expected to take his oath of office at 3pm today.

  • I have full confidence in Mtalimanja – Mwakasungula

    Governance and Human Rights Advocate Undule Mwakasungula has congratulated President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera for appointing Justice Annabel Mtalimanja as the new Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) Chairperson.

    President Chakwera has appointed Mtalimanja to replace Justice Dr. Chifundo Kachale whose tenure expired a few days ago. The Malawi leader has also appointed Rev. Phillip P.J. Kambulire and Dr. Limbikani Kamlongera as Commissioners replacing Dr. Anthony Mkumbwa and Olivia Mchanju Liwewe whose term of office also expired.

    MEC Director of Media and Public Relations, Sangwani Mwafulirwa, in a statement issued on Thursday, disclosed that these appointments are effective June 7, 2024.

    Their appointments have, however, drawn mixed reactions from Malawians, with others asserting that appointees are politically connected to the parties in the Tonse Alliance administration.

    But Mwakasungula dismisses this assertion, stressing that Mtalimanja and the others are people of high caliber.

    “I have full confidence in Justice Annabel Mtalimanja ability to lead the MEC with distinction and to meet the high expectations of the Malawians. It is against this background that I have the pleasure to welcome the appointment of Hon. Justice Annabel Mtalimanja as the new Chairperson of the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC).  This timely appointment by His Excellency, the President, Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, comes at a a  time the country is gearing up for the 2025 general elections. The presence of a new leader at the helm of the MEC ensures that the Commission is well-prepared to uphold the democratic process with integrity, transparency, and professionalism,” he said.

    Mwakasungula: Let us desist from raising alarm over unfounded theories when the President makes an appointment
    Mwakasungula: Let us desist from raising alarm over unfounded theories when the President makes an appointment

    Mwakasungula added that the appointment of Mtalimanja is not only a mark to her capabilities and accomplishments, but also send the message on the importance of promoting women in leadership positions.

    He said women’s participation in governance and leadership roles is important for the advancement of gender equity and the overall development of any nation.

    “This appointment serves as an inspiration to women and girls across Malawi, demonstrating that their contributions are valued to the nation’s progress. Moreover, this decision reflects President Dr Lazarus Chakwera and the government’s commitment to promoting gender equity.  As appointing a woman to this key role, the government reaffirms its dedication to ensuring that leadership opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of gender.  This move aligns with both national aspirations and international commitments to gender equality, further solidifying Malawi’s position as a forward-thinking and inclusive nation,” narrated Mwakasungula.

    The revered human rights and governance advocate urged the appointees to discharge their duties beyond reproach, saying the nation is looking up to them to guide the MEC with professionalism and integrity.

    “Your leadership will be key in ensuring that the 2025 general elections are conducted in a manner that is free, fair, and credible,” said Mwakasungula.

  • Govt for improved access to clean & sustainable energy

    The Minister of Energy Ibrahim Matola has expressed Government of Malawi’s commitment to ensuring that every household has access to clean, reliable and sustainable energy in the country.

    Matola made the sentiments when he officially opened a stakeholders’ conference in Lilongwe on Thursday. The conference was aimed at strengthening coordination among various stakeholders and provide actions towards achieving universal access to clean, reliable and sustainable energy in the country.

    Matola: The Government of Malawi is working very hard to address the gap in the energy sector
    Matola: The Government of Malawi is working very hard to address the gap in the energy sector

    The minister said access to reliable and affordable energy remains a significant obstacle for a substantial percentage of our population.

    Quoting the recent Malawi Energy Access Survey, Matola lamented that only about 25.8 percent of Malawians have access to electricity, primarily concentrated in urban areas.

    “Of this only 11.3% are connected to the grid while 14.5% are connected through Off-Grid Solutions. This glaring disparity hampers socio-economic development, and undermines provision of education and healthcare services,” he said.

    Matola said there is an urgent need to address this gap, adding that the conference has been organized to fortify national efforts and identify resources needed from various sectors to fulfill the country’s ambition for universal electrification and energy access.

    In this regard, the minister said the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for investments and innovation in the country.

    “Government is also committed to improve the efficiency and accessibility of our energy infrastructure. We acknowledge the need for comprehensive grid expansion, especially in rural areas, to extend the benefits of electricity to all corners of our nation. This expansion will require significant investments in transmission and distribution networks, as well as the integration of mini-grids and off-grid solutions,” he said.

    The minister said the event therefore provides a platform for stakeholders to highlight their efforts, share innovative solutions, and unlock financing opportunities essential for enhancing our energy access programs.

    Participants to the stakeholders’ conference at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Malawi’s capital, Lilongwe

    “To address these challenges, the Government of Malawi has adopted a holistic strategic approach. First and foremost, we are committed to diversifying our energy mix. Currently, the majority of our energy is derived from hydropower, leaving us vulnerable to climatic variations and rainfall patterns. Our strategic approach involves exploring alternative renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and biomass to enhance our energy security and mitigate environmental impacts.

    “By bringing together government entities, Development Partners, Financial Institutions, NGOs, and the Private Sector, we aim to create a holistic and integrated approach for resolving our energy challenges,” he said.

    Matola disclosed that the government is actively encouraging private sector participation in renewable energy projects through provision of incentives and streamlined regulatory policy frameworks.

    “I therefore, encourage all of you to actively engage in the discussions and deliberations throughout this conference. Let us share our experiences, exchange knowledge, and explore collaborative opportunities to accelerate the transformation of Malawi’s energy sector. Together, we can unlock its immense potential and create a brighter, more prosperous future for all Malawians,” he said.

  • NAP welcomes Chakwera’s appointment of new MEC Commissioners

    The National Advocacy Platform (NAP) has welcomed the appointment of Justice Annabel Mtalimanja as the new Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) chairperson replacing Justice Dr. Chifundo Kachale whose tenure expired.

    President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera has also appointed Rev. Phillip P.J. Kambulire and Dr. Limbikani Kamlongera as Commissioners replacing Dr. Anthony Mkumbwa and Olivia Mchanju Liwewe whose term of office also expired.

    Their appointments are effective June 7, 2024, according to a public statement MEC Director of Media and Public Relations, Sangwani Mwafulirwa, issued on Thursday.

    In his reaction to the appointments, NAP chairperson Benedicto Kondowe extended heartfelt congratulations to Justice Mtalimanja as well as Kambulire and Kamlongera on their appointments.

    New MEC Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja
    The new MEC Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja

    “We express our deepest gratitude to the outgoing Chairperson, Justice Dr. Chifundo Kachale, for his remarkable leadership. His dedication, hard work, and exemplary conduct have set a high standard, serving as a strong foundation for the incoming Chairperson and her team,” said Kondowe in a statement.

    He urged the appointees to steadfastly uphold the Constitution and discharge their mandate in accordance with section 76 of the Constitution of Malawi and section 8 of the Electoral Commission Act (Cap. 2:03 of the Laws of Malawi).

    Kondowe stressed that impartiality is paramount to ensuring free and fair elections in Malawi.

    “And we are confident that under their leadership, the Commission will continue to maintain its integrity and credibility. Congratulations once again to Hon. Justice Mtalimanja, Rev. Kambulire, and Dr. Kamlongera. We look forward to a continued commitment to democratic principles and the successful administration of elections in Malawi,” concluded the statement.

  • Climate YES, LTTC Environmental Club clean up trash at Area 25 Community Hospital in Lilongwe

    Climate Youth Ecumenical Summit (Climate YES) – an ecumenical gathering of young Christians calling for climate justice – and an environmental club at the Lilongwe Teachers Training College (TTC) – over the weekend swept the surroundings of Area 25 Community Hospital in Lilongwe.

    The cleanup initiative at the community hospital was aimed at raising awareness about the need to keep a clean environment to reduce pollution, preserve biosphere, protect endangered species, and help preserve the earth’s natural resources.

    Climate YES members and student teachers picking plastic papers around Area 25 Community Hospital in Lilongwe
    Climate YES members and student teachers picking plastic papers around Area 25 Community Hospital in Lilongwe

    Speaking to journalists, Climate YES Coordinator for Central Africa, Christiana Rosha, said Climate YES campaign is an ecumenical campaign led by young Christians calling for climate justice across the globe.

    Rosha stated that young people are key in ensuring a clean environment in all corners of the globe.

    In her remarks, patron for Lilongwe TTC Environmental Club, Lucy Mbewe, said cleaning the environment is the key to the existence and survival of life on planet earth.

    “And that’s why we are engaging student teachers in this initiative because teachers have a multiplier effect. When they are deployed to their respective duty stations after completion of their study, they will teach their learners the importance of keeping the environment clean,” said Mbewe.

    A student representative, Moses Austin, said cleanup initiatives are critical as they equip them with skills and knowledge on how they look after their surroundings.

  • NAP asks President Chakwera to urgently appoint Vice President

    The National Advocacy Platform (NAP) – a grouping of civil society organizations championing good governance in Malawi – has called for urgency in the appointment of Vice President to ensure the departure of Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima does not create a vaccum in the presidency.

    NAP chairperson Benedicto Kondowe emphasized that, while it is imperative to grieve the tragic death of the departed Vice President, the nation also look to the future.

    Kondowe: Let us all support President Chakwera as he makes the choice for the Chilima replacement
    Kondowe: Let us all support President Chakwera as he makes the choice for the Chilima replacement

    Kondowe, who issued a statement on Tuesday evening, stated that under Sections 84(2) and 88 of the Constitution of Malawi, the President is required to appoint a Vice President within seven days from the date the vacancy arose.

    “This is a pivotal moment for our nation,” he said, adding: “NAP urges the President to appoint a Vice President who understands and prioritizes the national interest. This leader should embody the vision and values that Dr. Chilima upheld, ensuring continuity and progress for Malawi. Furthermore, the incoming Vice President must be able to unify the nation and lead us through this period of collective healing.”

    Kondowe said although President Chakwera faces significant pressures, his decision must transcend political interests, as the future of the country depends on choosing a capable, dedicated leader committed to our collective goals.

    He also called upon stakeholders to support the President in making a wise and patriotic choice.

    “Let us unite to ensure the incoming Vice President upholds our constitutional values and steers Malawi toward a prosperous future,” stressed Chakwera.

  • Chibuku Products Limited makes difference to lives of orphaned children, donates to Jacaranda Orphan Care in Blantyre

    In a heartwarming display of corporate social responsibility, Chibuku Products Limited (CPL), a leading manufacturer of opaque beer beverages in Malawi, has donated to Jacaranda Orphan Care in Blantyre.

    The company’s generous contribution includes maize flour, a selection of Maheu beverage drinks and cash amounting to K300, 000.

    The orphanage, which provides a safe and loving environment for orphaned children, has been facing challenges in maintaining its daily operations due to financial problems.

    The donation from CPL will, therefore, go a long way in supporting the orphanage’s efforts to provide essential needs to the children.

    “We are thrilled to have Chibuku Products as a partner in our mission to support the orphanage,” said Sister Linda Viano, “Their donation will help us ensure that our children have access to nutritious food, clean clothes, and educational resources. We are grateful for their kindness and generosity.”

    M'bweza and CPL Human Resourcers Manager, Titus Mtonyo, handing over the donation to Sister Linda Viano and her fellow nun
    M’bweza and CPL Human Resourcers Manager, Titus Mtonyo, handing over the donation to Sister Linda Viano and her fellow nun

    The cash donation from Chibuku Products will be used to purchase essential items such as immediate essentials for the orphanage while the flour will be used to prepare meals for the children in addition to the beverage drinks, which will provide a refreshing and energy to the kids.

    “We believe that it is our responsibility as a corporate citizen to give back to our community,” said Henry Mbweza, Marketing and Corporate Affairs Manager representative of Chibuku Products.

    “We are proud to support the work of Jacaranda Orphan Home and make a positive impact on the lives of these deserving children.”

    The donation from Chibuku is a testament to the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

    The company’s generosity will have a lasting impact on the orphanage and its residents, and will help to create a brighter future for these young lives.

  • The trust and love that confusionists failed to break between Chakwera and Chilima

    Without any grain of doubt, the departed Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima will go in the annals of Malawi’s history as the most loved, celebrated and revered Second Citizen.

    Chilima is certainly the first Vice President whose life and service touched the lives of every Malawian. He worked for the good of everyone, without considering one’s social, political, economic, regional, ethnic affiliation.

    President Chakwera (left) and his vice Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima were usually together during government events
    President Chakwera (left) and his vice Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima were usually together during government events

    Those who have worked with him say, throughout his entire service at the Capital Hill, the departed Vice President dedicated his life towards transforming lives of the poor, the elderly, the youth and the most neglected in the society.

    President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera has, on several occasions, confessed before Malawians how he benefited from the cordial relationship between him and his vice.

    President Chakwera respected his Second in Command and ensured that he [Chilima] did his job to the perfection he was known for.

    He never castigated Chilima in public as has been the case with former presidents and their vices.

    October 18, 2021, President Chakwera described the late Vice President as his mechanic who was fixing the country while he [Chakwera] is the driver of a minibus responsible for delivering developments to Malawians.

    This is a demonstration of faith that Chkawera had in Chilima,

    “The measure of success by which Malawians are evaluating our collective performance is whether jobs, wealth and food security we promised them are being delivered. For that to happen, not only must each part do its work without fail, but all the parts must work together to ensure that delivery is accomplished,” said the President.

    It seemed, however, that this cordial working relationship did not please greedy politicians within and without Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and UTM Party.

    And amid speculations that Chakwera and Chilima were not in talking terms, the President rose to occasion to denounce politics of divisions.

    On February 1, 2024, President Chakwera told Malawians how hard some confusionists were working to divide the two. But he vowed that he could not fight his vice because that would not benefit anyone.

    “I know there are some people who want me to be fighting with different people, including my Vice President, and some cabinet ministers. But that is not my system of politics. The politics I know is to initiate development projects in all parts of the country, regardless of tribe and region. And I am ready to work with everyone who is committed to assist me develop this country, even with those who criticised me in the past,” he said.

    President Chakwera wondered how the nation would benefit from the estranged relationship between him and the departed Vice President.

    “This country has been facing a number of challenges ranging from cyclones, cholera, Covid-19, dry-spells and many more. These occurrences have brought a lot of pain on people’s lives such as lack of food and money. So with these challenges, should we continue castigating each other?” he asked.

    At this point, President Chakwera challenged politicians to stop politics of name calling and castigation, stressing that this is counterproductive.

    But this was not enough to compel confusionists to stop their divisive behavior. When the plane crashed in Chikangawa Forest, killing Chilima and eight others on board, the confusionists were up in arms creating fake news about the accident.

    They created many conspiracy theories merely to bring hatred between Chakwera, the bereaved family and UTM Party.

    It was soothing though in his speech, the President gave hope to Malawians during this difficult time.

    Chakwera understood the complexities of mourning and promised to forgo vengeance in the face of accusations and finger-pointing.

    His promise to institute an independent investigation into the plane crash and the delays in search efforts shows a commitment to transparency and accountability.

    President Chakwera has certainly exhibited remarkable strength and resilience while demonstrating to the world how he loved his Vice President with sincerity.